US7443388B1 - Housing for a computing device - Google Patents

Housing for a computing device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US7443388B1
US7443388B1 US11/169,608 US16960805A US7443388B1 US 7443388 B1 US7443388 B1 US 7443388B1 US 16960805 A US16960805 A US 16960805A US 7443388 B1 US7443388 B1 US 7443388B1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
light
housing
computer
area
recited
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime, expires
Application number
US11/169,608
Inventor
Chris J. Novak
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Apple Inc
Original Assignee
Apple Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Apple Inc filed Critical Apple Inc
Priority to US11/169,608 priority Critical patent/US7443388B1/en
Assigned to APPLE INC. reassignment APPLE INC. CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: APPLE COMPUTER, INC.
Priority to US12/212,550 priority patent/US8256913B2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US7443388B1 publication Critical patent/US7443388B1/en
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1615Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with several enclosures having relative motions, each enclosure supporting at least one I/O or computing function
    • G06F1/1616Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with several enclosures having relative motions, each enclosure supporting at least one I/O or computing function with folding flat displays, e.g. laptop computers or notebooks having a clamshell configuration, with body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis parallel to the plane they define in closed position
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1656Details related to functional adaptations of the enclosure, e.g. to provide protection against EMI, shock, water, or to host detachable peripherals like a mouse or removable expansions units like PCMCIA cards, or to provide access to internal components for maintenance or to removable storage supports like CDs or DVDs, or to mechanically mount accessories
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1684Constructional details or arrangements related to integrated I/O peripherals not covered by groups G06F1/1635 - G06F1/1675
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06FELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/16Constructional details or arrangements
    • G06F1/1613Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
    • G06F1/1633Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
    • G06F1/1684Constructional details or arrangements related to integrated I/O peripherals not covered by groups G06F1/1635 - G06F1/1675
    • G06F1/169Constructional details or arrangements related to integrated I/O peripherals not covered by groups G06F1/1635 - G06F1/1675 the I/O peripheral being an integrated pointing device, e.g. trackball in the palm rest area, mini-joystick integrated between keyboard keys, touch pads or touch stripes

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to computer system and, more particularly, to improved features for housings of computer systems.
  • All computing devices including portable computers and desktop computers, have housings that encloses the components and circuitry of the computing devices.
  • These housings are known to include various ports (e.g., parallel port, serial port, audio port, PC-Card slot) at their periphery to allow external devices to electrically couple to the computing devices.
  • Access to the various ports is normally provided by associated connectors or slots that are provided as the periphery of the housings.
  • the external devices that electrically couple to these ports typically do so with plugs or cards that mate with the connectors or slots.
  • One disadvantage with the conventional use of such connectors or slots is that they are not easily located. Another disadvantage is that it is often difficult for users to determine whether proper connections have been made upon inserting the mating plugs or cards into the connectors or slots.
  • Computing devices are also known to make use of a touch pad (or track pad) as an input device to the computing devices.
  • a palm rest portion of the base housing for the portable computers is often provided with a touch pad.
  • touch pads have been attached with a bracket structure to the inside surface of the base housing such that the touch pad is held in place from the inside of the base housing and made accessible through an opening in the palm rest.
  • the conventional approaches to attaching the touch pad to the base housing lead to problems.
  • One problem with conventional approaches is that assembly is difficult because the touch pad is assembled and held in place from the inside of the base housing (i.e., from the underside of the palm rest).
  • Another problem with conventional approaches is that the touch pad is necessarily recessed below the top surface of the palm rest by the thickness of the base housing at the palm rest which tends to make its use by users more difficult.
  • base housings As base housings get thinner and lighter, the base housings unfortunately get more flexible and thus less stiff. This even more true with base housings that provide industrial design features into the base housings because non-rectangular structures often associated with modern industrial designs offer even less rigidity. While internal ridges have been used to increase strength, recent designs are not always amenable to providing for internal ribs. For example, when there is limited space inside the housing the ribs may not provide the desired stiffness. Furthermore, in some applications, particularly around sensitive parts such as a Compact Disk (CD) drive or Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) drive, the strength of the walls enclosing the CD/DVD drive need to substantially resist deflections to prevent damage to the CD/DVD drive.
  • CD Compact Disk
  • DVD Digital Versatile Disc
  • a deflection of more than 1 ⁇ 2 millimeter around the CD/DVD drive can damage the sensitive parts of the CD/DVD drive.
  • the ability of housing to sufficiently resist such deflection is becoming increasingly difficult as base housing become thinner and provide industrial design features.
  • one test that can be applied to test deflection is that a base housing must not deflect more than 1 ⁇ 2 millimeter when put under a 10 lb. force.
  • the invention relates to an improved housing for a computing device.
  • a first aspect of the invention pertains to an illuminable connector suitable for use with the computing device.
  • a second aspect of the invention pertains to a touch pad arrangement also suitable for use with the computing device. Both the illuminable connector and the touch pad arrangement can be provided on external portions of a housing of the computing device such that they are available for user interaction.
  • a third aspect of the invention pertains to a palm rest stiffening plate.
  • the invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as an apparatus, a device, a method, and a computer system. Several embodiments of the invention are discussed below.
  • one embodiment of the invention includes a connector configured to transmit signals to and from the computer, and a light emitting enclosure having a light receiving area and an illuminating area.
  • the light emitting enclosure is configured to direct light from the light source through said light emitting enclosure from the light receiving area to the illuminating area, and said light emitting enclosure is disposed around the outer periphery of said connector.
  • one embodiment of the invention includes a light source, a computer housing configured to enclose said light source, and an illuminable connector provided at an outer peripheral surface of said computer housing.
  • the illuminable connector including a connector configured to transmit signals to and from said computer system, and a light emitting enclosure having a light receiving area and an illuminating area.
  • the light emitting enclosure being configured to direct light from said light source through said light emitting enclosure from the light receiving area to the illuminating area, and said light emitting enclosure being disposed around the outer periphery of said connector.
  • one embodiment of the invention includes the acts of: transmitting light from a light source enclosed in the computer housing; receiving the transmitted light at a light receiving portion of the translucent connector; directing the transmitted light from the light receiving portion of the translucent connector through the translucent connector to an outer periphery of the translucent connector such that light is directed outward away from the outer periphery of the computer housing.
  • one embodiment of the invention includes: a housing having an outer surface and an opening through said housing, said housing further including a first recess within the outer surface about the opening to produce a first recessed surface; and a track pad said track pad being disposed in the first recess.
  • one embodiment of the invention includes: a bottom portion providing a bottom surface for said portable computer housing; a top portion providing a top surface for said portable computer housing, said top surface having a palm rest region; and a stiffener affixed to an inner surface of the palm rest region of said top portion.
  • the top portion and said bottom portion are coupled together to form said portable computer housing.
  • the stiffener operates to provide stiffness to the palm rest region substantially beyond the stiffness otherwise provided by said top portion.
  • one embodiment of the invention includes a computer housing and a stiffening plate.
  • the computer housing including at least a top portion and a bottom portion.
  • the top portion has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the top portion includes a palm rest region on the outer surface.
  • the bottom portion is configured to be coupled to the top portion such that said top portion and said bottom portion when coupled together form said portable computer housing.
  • the stiffening plate is configured to be coupled to the inner surface of said top portion of said computer housing and the stiffening plate is configured to strengthen said palm rest region.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a portable computer
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an illuminable connector arranged on a portable computer
  • FIG. 3 depicts a side and front view of an illuminable connector according to one embodiment of the invention
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams of a side view and a perspective view of a touch pad system according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a stiffening plate according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a diagram of a portion of a top portion of a base housing for use with a computer system.
  • the invention pertains to an improved housing for a computing device. More particularly, a first aspect of the invention pertains to an illuminable connector suitable for use with the computing device. A second aspect of the invention pertains to a touch pad arrangement also suitable for use with the computing device. Both the illuminable connector and the touch pad arrangement can be provided on external portions of a housing of the computing device such that they are available for user interaction. A third aspect of the invention pertains to a palm rest stiffening plate.
  • FIGS. 1-6 Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1-6 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a portable computer 100 .
  • the portable computer 100 includes a base 102 and a lid 104 .
  • the base 102 houses internally various integrated circuit chips and other circuitry to provide computing operations for the portable computer 100 .
  • the integrated circuit chips and other circuitry include a microprocessor, Read-Only Memory (ROM), Random-Access Memory (RAM), a disk drive, a battery, and various input/output (I/O) support circuitry.
  • the base 102 also includes a keyboard 106 that allows a user of the portable computer 100 to enter alphanumeric data.
  • the base 102 also includes a track pad 108 and associated buttons 110 and 112 .
  • the track pad 108 is an input device for the portable computer 100 and generally represents an input pointer device.
  • the associated buttons 110 and 112 allow a user to make a selection with respect to a graphical user interface.
  • the track pad 108 and the buttons 110 and 112 are located in an upper, front area of the base 102 referred to as a palm rest 113 .
  • the base 102 includes a power switch 114 and miscellaneous switches 116 .
  • the lid 104 is coupled to the base 102 by way of a hinge mechanism (not shown). As such, the lid 104 can rotate into an open position or a closed position with respect to the base 102 . As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the lid 104 is in the open position.
  • the lid 104 contains a liquid crystal display (LCD) 118 .
  • the LCD display 118 is visible to a user of the portable computer 100 when the lid 104 is in the open position, such as illustrated in FIG. 1 .
  • the LCD display 118 is used to display the graphical user interface (including perhaps a pointer or cursor) as well as other information to the user.
  • the LCD display 118 is surrounded at a peripheral region by a bezel 120 that serves to support the LCD display 118 in its assembled position within the lid 104 .
  • a bezel 120 that serves to support the LCD display 118 in its assembled position within the lid 104 .
  • a connector with an illuminable enclosure is provided.
  • the illumination provided is used to show a computer user (operator) whether or not a connection is made between a plug and a socket that are operatively coupled together.
  • the term “illuminable connector” herein refers to a connector that includes an illuminable enclosure.
  • the illuminable connector is structurally coupled to a surface of a computer housing.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an illuminable connector 200 arranged on a portable computer 202 .
  • the portable computer 200 is, for example, a side view of the portable computer 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 .
  • the portable computer 200 includes a base 204 and a lid 206 which respectively correspond to the base 102 and the lid 104 illustrated in FIG. 1 .
  • the portable computer 200 is illustrated in the closed position in FIG. 2 .
  • the illuminable connector 202 can be provided on any side of the portable computer 200 .
  • the illuminable connector 202 is coupled to a peripheral surface of the base 204 (or base housing).
  • the base 204 is arranged to have an opening for the illuminable connector 202 .
  • the illuminable connector 202 is provided in the opening so that not only is the illuminable connector 202 accessible for the purpose of inserting or removing a plug with respect to the illuminable connector 202 but also any illumination provided at the illuminable connector 202 can be seen by a computer operator.
  • the illuminable connector 202 includes a socket (e.g., female) end of a connection that is structurally coupled to a peripheral surface of a computer housing.
  • the illuminable connector 202 is made in part with a light guiding material that directs light from a light source internal to the computer housing to outside the computer housing.
  • the light source when a plug is operatively coupled to the socket, the light source is turned on so as to illuminate the illuminable connector 202 . With the first embodiment, the light source is off when the plug is not operatively coupled to the socket (i.e., no illumination).
  • the light source when the plug is operatively coupled to the socket, the light source is turned off and when the plug is not operatively coupled to the socket the light source is on.
  • Both the first and second embodiments can thus advantageously display, to a computer operator, whether or not a proper connection has been made between the plug and the socket. Namely, the presence or absence of light is able to be associated with connection or no connection.
  • FIG. 3 depicts a side and front view of an illuminable connector 310 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the illuminable connector 310 has a connector 312 and a light emitting enclosure 314 .
  • the connector 312 is configured to transmit electrical signals to and from a computer.
  • the connector 312 may provide an audio/visual connection, a telephony connection, a serial connection (e.g., Universal Serial Bus), or a parallel connection.
  • the connector 312 is not limited by these types of connections and that any connection that uses a connector for electrical transmitting signals to and from a computer may be used.
  • the connections are provided by a plug connector (e.g., male) and a socket connector (e.g., female) that operatively couple an external device to a computer.
  • the external device can be a peripheral device.
  • the connector 312 is a socket connector. In other embodiment, it may be desirable to make the connector 12 a plug connector.
  • the light emitting enclosure 314 is configured to be disposed around the outer periphery of the connector 312 . That is, the light emitting enclosure 314 has an inner peripheral shape that coincides with at least a portion of an external peripheral shape of the connector 312 .
  • the outer peripheral shape of light emitting enclosure 314 can be configured in a wide range of shapes, including circle, square, rectangle, triangle, polygon, or logos. In other words, the light emitting enclosure 314 can take any shape that substantially surrounds the connector 312 .
  • the light emitting enclosure 314 may be structurally coupled to the connector 312 or may include an opening that allows connector 312 to be fitted therein.
  • the light emitting enclosure 314 may be configured to contact at least a portion of a surface of the connector 12 or may include a gap therebetween.
  • FIG. 3 shows only one configuration (i.e., circular) for the connector 312 and the light emitting enclosure 314 , it should be noted that this is not a limitation on the invention and that any configuration, depending on the type of connector used and the desired outer peripheral shape of the enclosure, can be used.
  • the light emitting enclosure 314 includes a light receiving area 316 , a light directing area 318 , and an illuminating area 320 .
  • the light receiving area 316 is configured to transmit light from a light source 322 to the light directing area 318 .
  • the light receiving area 316 is formed to substantially adjacent to the light source 22 to efficiently couple light from the light source 322 to the light receiving area 316 .
  • the light directing area 318 is arranged to direct the transmitted light from the light receiving area 316 to the illuminating area 320 . In this manner, when the light source 322 is transmitting light, the transmitted light illuminates an illuminating area 320 .
  • the light directing area 318 may be a reflecting surface of the light emitting enclosure 14 that reflects the transmitted light from light receiving area 316 towards the illuminating area 320 .
  • the dimensions and orientation of the reflecting surface are arranged such that the reflected light is transmitted to the illuminating area 320 .
  • the reflecting surface may be disposed internal or external to the light emitting enclosure 314 .
  • the light directing area 318 may not be needed and that the light from the light source may be transmitted directly from the light receiving area 316 to the illuminating area 320 .
  • the illuminating area 320 is configured to transmit the directed light outward away from the illuminable connector 310 so as to illuminate the light emitting enclosure 314 when the light source 322 is turned on.
  • the illuminating area 320 is a surface on the light emitting enclosure 314 that is luminous when the light source 322 is turned on. In most instances, the illuminating area 320 is at least partially located on the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 .
  • the illuminating area 320 is not limited to the distal face (i.e., front portion) and may be any surface of the illuminable enclosure including side and top portions.
  • the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 may be planar or non-planar. Additionally, the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 may also be recessed, flush or extend out relative to the distal face of the connector 312 .
  • the material that forms the illuminable enclosure must be suitable to facilitate the transmission of light therethrough. Accordingly, the material must exhibit suitable translucent characteristics for proper operation. It may be advantageous if the material is easily formable to different types of shapes including both simple and complex geometries. Additionally, the material could also be determined with reference to the environment it will be used in, such as impact strength and temperature. In some implementations, such materials are easily formed by certain types of plastics or other translucent materials. In one embodiment, the material can be composed of polycarbonate, although other suitable materials may be used as well.
  • the illuminable connector 310 is often structurally coupled to a peripheral surface of a computer housing.
  • the portable computer 200 namely, base 204
  • the portable computer 200 may have an opening that is configured to hold the illuminable connector 310 on the inside peripheral surface of the base 204 and to provide illumination viewing space for the illuminating area 320 of the illuminable connector 310 .
  • the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 may be recessed, flush or extend outward relative to the outer peripheral surface of the base 204 .
  • the illuminable connector 310 is normally positioned on a front, back or side surface of the base 204 , but can also be positioned on a surface of the lid 206 .
  • the base 204 of the portable computer 200 is normally configured to enclose the light source 322 (see FIG. 3 )) and other components (e.g., hardware circuitry) associated with a computer.
  • the light source 322 is a light emitting diode.
  • the light source 322 is affixed to a printed circuit board 324 that is provided within the base 204 as part of the components (e.g., hardware circuitry).
  • the illuminable connector 310 is also affixed relative to the printed circuit board (and thus the light source 322 ).
  • various other types of light sources that can fit inside a computer housing can be used.
  • the illuminable connector 310 can use a single light source, more than one light source can also be used.
  • the illuminable connector 310 can used a pair of light receiving areas 316 and a corresponding pair of light sources (one disposed on each side).
  • the illumination of the illumination area 320 can signal a computer operator (or user) whether or not a proper connection is made with the illuminable connector 320 . More particularly, when an operative connection is made between the socket (or plug) of the illuminable connector 320 and an external plug (or socket), light is transmitted by the light source, thereby illuminating the illumination area 320 external to the computer housing such that the computer operator is visually notified that a proper connection was made.
  • the light source 322 is activated once the circuitry within the portable computer 200 determines that an external plug (or socket) has been properly connected.
  • the light source may be configured to be on when a connection is not made and off when a connection is made.
  • a computer operator would be able to see the illuminable connector and make the proper connection with an external plug or socket.
  • One advantage of the invention is that illumination of the connector provides information not only as to location of the connector but also whether or not a proper connection is made.
  • Another advantage of the invention is that the light used to provide the illumination is provided internal to a computer housing and directed towards an illumination area of the connector located at the periphery of the computer housing.
  • Still another advantage of the invention is that the illumination area of the connector can be formed into various different shapes or configurations for design considerations.
  • a touch pad arrangement for a computer is provided.
  • the touch pad is arranged with a palm rest of a computer system.
  • a touch pad sometimes referred to as “a pressure sensitive tablet” or a “track pad”, is an input device that typically is configured to move a pointer (or cursor) on a display screen (e.g., LCD display 118 ).
  • a pointer or cursor
  • a display screen e.g., LCD display 118
  • touch pads can be provided in different apparatus, typically touch pads are provided on portable computers.
  • the computer system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes the touch pad 108 and the associated buttons 110 and 112 at the palm rest 113 .
  • a base housing for the portable computer is provided with an opening in the palm rest to provide access to a touch pad.
  • a user (with finger to stylus) is able to use the touch pad through the opening in the palm rest.
  • the touch pad is typically attached with a bracket structure to the inside surface of the base housing such that the touch pad is held in place and accessible through the opening in the palm rest.
  • the conventional approaches to attaching the touch pad to the base housing lead to problems.
  • One problem with conventional approaches is that assembly is difficult because the touch pad is assembled and held in place from the inside of the base housing (i.e., from the underside of the palm rest).
  • Another problem with conventional approaches is that the touch pad is necessarily recessed below the top surface of the palm rest by the thickness of the base housing at the palm rest which tends to be bothersome for users.
  • the touch pad arrangement for a computer overcomes these problems with the conventional approaches.
  • the touch pad arrangement provides for simplified assembly.
  • the assembly of the touch pad to the palm rest is from the outside.
  • the base housing is provided with a multi-recessed opening in the palm rest to receive the touch pad as well as a protective label that is placed over the touch pad. Additionally, once assembled, the touch pad is substantially flush with the outer surface of the base housing, thereby providing better ease of use.
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams of a side view and a perspective view of a touch pad system 410 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the touch pad system 410 (not drawn to scale for ease of discussion) includes a track pad housing 412 , a track pad 414 and a track pad label 416 .
  • track pad housing 412 is part of a computer housing (e.g., base housing or palm rest).
  • the track pad housing 412 could be associated with other apparatuses besides a computer housing.
  • the track pad housing 412 has an outer surface 418 that includes an opening 420 . As shown in FIG. 4B , the opening extends through the outer surface 418 to allow for wiring (not shown) of the track pad 414 to be provided internal to the computer housing.
  • the track pad housing 412 also has a first recess 422 and a second recess 424 provided about the opening 420 .
  • the first recess 422 has a first recessed surface 426
  • the second recess 424 has a second recessed surface 428 .
  • the first recess 422 is configured to coincide with the shape of the track pad 414 such that the track pad 414 will fit in the first recess 422 and against the first recessed surface 416 .
  • the second recess 424 is configured to coincide with the shape of the track pad label 416 .
  • the circumference of the second recess 424 is greater than the circumference of the first recess 422 .
  • the track pad label 416 fits within the second recess 424 and over the track pad 414 .
  • the depth of the first recess 422 is substantially the same as the thickness of the track pad 414
  • the depth of the second recess 424 is substantially the same as the thickness of the track pad label 416 .
  • the track pad 414 includes an input surface 30 that is configured to receive user inputs (e.g., top surface of the track pad).
  • the track pad 414 can detect the user inputs in a variety of ways including pressure and capacitance.
  • the track pad label 416 serves to protect the track pad 414 from foreign matter (e.g., fluids, dust, etc.) by sealing against the outer surface 418 in at least the second recessed surface.
  • the track pad label 416 is used to protect the input surface 430 of the track pad 414 .
  • the track pad label 416 includes a contact surface 432 and an adhesive surface 434 .
  • the adhesive surface 434 is used to couple the track pad label 416 to the track pad 414 and the second recessed surface 428 .
  • the track pad 414 is disposed inside the first recess 422 and adjacent to the first recessed surface 426 .
  • the input surface 430 of the track pad 414 is substantially flush with the second recessed surface 428 when the track pad 414 is disposed inside the first recess 422 and adjacent to the first recessed surface 426 .
  • the track pad label 416 is disposed inside the second recess 424 and over to the track pad 414 and the second recessed surface 428 such that the adhesive surface 434 substantially covers the track pad and the second surface.
  • the entire adhesive surface 434 need not have adhesive thereon, only the peripheral portion need contain adhesive.
  • the contact surface 432 of the track pad label 416 can optionally include a ridge that surrounds the perimeter of the track pad 414 .
  • the ridge can serve as a boundary to the input area for the touch pad system 410 .
  • the ridge serves to provide a user of the track pad system 410 with context as to where the boundaries are for the input area where the touch pad system 410 is active.
  • FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate the track pad label 416 with a ridge 436 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the ridge 436 extends in a direction outward from the contact surface 432 .
  • the ridge 436 should be dimensioned to be large enough for finger or stylus sensitivity.
  • the ridge 436 coincides above the outer perimeter of the track pad 414 .
  • One advantage of the invention is that assembly of a track pad (touch pad) into a housing, such as the base housing of a portable computer, is greatly simplified.
  • Another advantage of the invention is that a track pad (touch pad) is able to be mounted flush with an outer surface of its housing, namely flush with a palm rest surface of a base housing of a portable computer.
  • a third aspect of the invention pertains to a stiffening plate (stiffener plate) for a housing associated with a computer.
  • the invention is particularly suitable for a palm rest stiffening plate for use with a palm rest of a portable computer.
  • the portable computer 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes the palm rest 113 positioned on an upper, front area of the base 102 .
  • the stiffening plate may be configured to provide stiffness around other weak points of the computer housing.
  • the stiffening plate may be used to stiffen the weak sections of the computer housing around the CD/DVD drive and keyboard, where the housing has limited structure and support.
  • the stiffening plate is configured to increase the strength of the housing, which advantageously allows the thickness of the computer housing walls to be decreased. In most instances, decreased wall thickness reduces the overall thickness and weight of the computer, both of which are desired to make a portable computer lighter and thinner.
  • FIG. 5A illustrates a stiffening plate 510 according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the stiffening plate 510 is formed from a material having rigid strength and lightweight properties.
  • the stiffening plate 510 is stamped and formed from an aluminum sheet.
  • the stiffening plate is formed from a 5052 series aluminum sheet having a 0.5 mm thickness.
  • the stiffening plate is preferably made from aluminum, it should be noted that any material that is substantially rigid (e.g., providing stiffness), while being lightweight and relatively thin may be used.
  • the stiffening plate 510 also includes a plurality of dimples 512 that serve to increase the stiffness (i.e., shear strength) of the stiffening plate 510 when adhered to an adjacent surface such as a computer housing.
  • the dimples when adhered to an adjacent surface create a box like structure at each of the dimple positions. That is, the dimples and the surface form a corrugated laminate structure, which provides a stiff structure having good shearing strength.
  • FIG. 5B an example of a dimple box structure 514 is shown.
  • the dimple box structure 514 includes stiffening plate 510 having dimples 512 .
  • dimples 510 provide flat surfaces 515 that are coupled to a surface 516 with an adhesive 518 .
  • each dimple 512 represents a glue joint for adhering the stiffening plate 510 to a surface 516 .
  • a plurality of joined boxes e.g., honeycomb
  • such a structure can enable a thin, lightweight housing to withstand deflection of more than 1 ⁇ 2 millimeter when put under a 10 lb. force.
  • the plurality of dimples 512 have a dimple depth 520 .
  • the greater the depth of the dimple the greater the stiffness of the structure.
  • the dimple depth is generally constrained by the overall thickness of the computer and the adjacent internal structures.
  • the dimples are preferably configured to be shallow so as not to impact the overall thickness of the stiffening plate 510 .
  • the dimple depth is about 0.8 mm.
  • the overall height of the stiffening plate is about 1.3 mm.
  • the dimples 512 are patterned to maximize the strength of the stiffening plate 510 .
  • the dimples 512 are not a limitation and that other manufacturing process that increases the strength of the stiffening plate may be used.
  • a stamped protrusion 522 may also be used in conjunction with the dimples to form the corrugated like structure.
  • a formed edge 524 at the perimeter of the stiffening plate may also be used to increase the stiffness of the stiffening plate.
  • the stiffening plate 510 is also configured to provide openings 526 for features such as connectors, wires and other computer components (e.g., track pad, buttons). Furthermore, stiffening plate 510 may include holes 528 for reducing the overall weight of the stiffening plate 510 . Additionally, the stiffening plate 510 may include protrusions and/or depressions that coincide with the housing shape. Also, as is appreciated by those skilled in the art, Aluminum can be easily formed (e.g., coining or stamping), and therefore many design features may be configured into the stiffening plate.
  • the computer housing may be the base 102 of a portable computer 100 as shown in FIG. 1 ).
  • a base housing (or base) includes the top portion and a bottom portion.
  • the bottom portion is configured to be coupled to the top portion such that when the top portion and the bottom portion are coupled together they form the base of the portable computer.
  • FIG. 6 is a diagram of a portion of a top portion 618 of a base housing for use with a computer system.
  • An outer surface of the top portion 618 of the housing has a palm rest (e.g., palm rest 113 of FIG. 1 ).
  • the palm rest provides a space for resting the palms of the portable computer user while the user types or uses a track pad on the portable computer. Because the palm rest is load bearing (e.g., weight of the user's palms) it is required to be strong (e.g., to prevent bowing or unduly flexing).
  • the inner surface of the top portion 618 includes a stiffening plate 610 .
  • the stiffening plate 610 can, for example, be the stiffening plate 510 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B . More particularly, the stiffening plate 610 is affixed against the inner surface of the top portion 618 of the computer housing. In one implementation, the stiffening plate 610 has a shape that is configured to coincide with the at least a portion of the shape of the palm rest. Correspondingly, the laminate structure of the top portion and the stiffening plate 610 preferably provides the required strength for supporting the palm rest. It should be noted that the stiffening plate 610 is not limited to only stiffening the palm rest region of a housing and that it may be used to stiffen other portions of a computer housing as well.
  • the stiffening plate 610 is affixed to the inner surface of the top portion 618 with an adhesive (not shown).
  • adhesive can be placed at each dimple and thus serves to bond the dimples to a mating region of the inner surface of the top portion 618 (see FIG. 5B ).
  • the adhesive is a two part epoxy that bonds well between the material of the stiffening plate and the material of the top portion. Characteristically, this material provides good shear strength when combine with these two materials.
  • the stiffening plate is formed from aluminum and the top portion is formed from plastic (e.g., polycarbonate ABS). In some implementations, the top portion is nickel plated plastic.
  • the two part epoxy is a Lord 201 adhesive made by Lord Corp. of Erie, Pa. It should be noted that other types of adhesives can be used so long as they form a laminate bond with good shear strength between the stiffener and the top portion.
  • fastening means may be used (e.g. screws, bolts, heat staked) to couple the stiffening plate to the top portion, but none will produce the strength provided by the permanent laminate structure that uses an adhesive as described above.
  • heat stakes are used to properly align the stiffening plate on the top portion during manufacturing. Typically, screws and bolts have too much weight and over time may come loose. Additionally, heat stakes overtime will become stressed and possibly break wherein the stiffening plate may come loose or may break off.
  • the stiffening plate 610 can also include a first plate opening 620 and the top portion 618 can include a first top portion opening 622 . Both the first plate opening 620 and the first top portion opening 622 are dimensioned to fit around a portion of a track pad (not shown). In most situations, the first top portion opening 620 provides an opening for a track pad provided in the palm rest of the top portion 618 . Furthermore, the stiffening plate includes a recess (not shown) that provides a mounting surface for the track pad. In this configuration, the recess traps and holds the track pad in position between the stiffening plate and the top portion 618 .
  • the stiffening plate 610 includes extensions 624 and the top portion 618 includes a second top portion opening 626 .
  • the second top portion opening 626 is dimensioned to fit around (i.e., not interfere with) a portion of a set of keys of a keyboard.
  • the extensions 624 are configured to surround a portion of the second top portion opening 626 . In this manner, the extensions increase the stiffness at a potential weak area 628 between the location of the key pad and the CD/DVD drive opening in the top portion 618 .
  • the configuration and placement of the stiffening plate may cause the stiffening plate to act like an antenna. Therefore, the conductive stiffening plate should be grounded.
  • at least one EMI (electromagnetic interference) gasket 630 is disposed between the top portion 618 and the stiffening plate 610 to ground the stiffening plate 610 to the top portion 618 .
  • more than one EMI gasket may be needed to provide adequate grounding, and therefore the present invention is not limited by one EMI gasket and that a plurality of EMI gaskets may be used.
  • the EMI gaskets 630 is a strip of foam surrounded by a conductive material. In this manner, the foam provides a spring-like surface that ensures contact between the stiffening plate and the top portion which itself has a conductive inner coating (e.g., nickel plated plastic).
  • the third aspect of the invention provides significant improvements to the structure, ruggedness and strength of the base housing (e.g., palm rest portion) of a computer.
  • the palm rest portion is able to be thin, but extremely stiff, and thus the housing as whole can have a reduced in thickness.
  • the stiffening the palm rest is also achieved with a relatively small amount of additional weight.
  • the stiffening plate creates such a stiff structure that the materials that form the internal housings for parts such as the enclosure for the CD/DVD drive could be changed to less rigid and thus less weighted materials.
  • the stiffer housing makes it possible to have a less stiff structure around the CD/DVD drive to support it.
  • the CD/DVD support could be changed from steel to aluminum. Therefore, the third aspect invention supports the further reduction in thickness and weight for portable computers.
  • the invention is particularly well suited for use in a computer system, namely a portable computer system, the invention is not limited to use in computer systems.
  • the invention is suitable for other devices or apparatuses that include a touch pad or track pad.
  • One advantage of the invention is that assembly is simplified which reduces manufacturing costs associated with labor and parts. Another advantage of the invention is that the flush design improves user satisfaction.

Abstract

Improved housing for a computing device is disclosed. The improved housing is provided with one of an illuminable connector, a touch pad arrangement, and a palm rest stiffening plate. Normally, the illuminable connector and the touch pad arrangement are provided on external portions of a housing of the computing device such that they are available for user interaction. The palm rest stiffening plate is provided internal to a housing to provide stiffness or rigidity to a palm rest region of the housing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/013,126 filed Dec. 7, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,933,929 which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/426,408 filed Oct. 25, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,357,887, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/134,084, filed on May 14, 1999, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to computer system and, more particularly, to improved features for housings of computer systems.
2. Description of the Related Art
All computing devices, including portable computers and desktop computers, have housings that encloses the components and circuitry of the computing devices. These housings are known to include various ports (e.g., parallel port, serial port, audio port, PC-Card slot) at their periphery to allow external devices to electrically couple to the computing devices. Access to the various ports is normally provided by associated connectors or slots that are provided as the periphery of the housings. The external devices that electrically couple to these ports typically do so with plugs or cards that mate with the connectors or slots. One disadvantage with the conventional use of such connectors or slots is that they are not easily located. Another disadvantage is that it is often difficult for users to determine whether proper connections have been made upon inserting the mating plugs or cards into the connectors or slots.
Computing devices are also known to make use of a touch pad (or track pad) as an input device to the computing devices. With portable computers, a palm rest portion of the base housing for the portable computers is often provided with a touch pad. Conventionally, touch pads have been attached with a bracket structure to the inside surface of the base housing such that the touch pad is held in place from the inside of the base housing and made accessible through an opening in the palm rest.
Unfortunately, the conventional approaches to attaching the touch pad to the base housing lead to problems. One problem with conventional approaches is that assembly is difficult because the touch pad is assembled and held in place from the inside of the base housing (i.e., from the underside of the palm rest). Another problem with conventional approaches is that the touch pad is necessarily recessed below the top surface of the palm rest by the thickness of the base housing at the palm rest which tends to make its use by users more difficult.
Also, as base housings get thinner and lighter, the base housings unfortunately get more flexible and thus less stiff. This even more true with base housings that provide industrial design features into the base housings because non-rectangular structures often associated with modern industrial designs offer even less rigidity. While internal ridges have been used to increase strength, recent designs are not always amenable to providing for internal ribs. For example, when there is limited space inside the housing the ribs may not provide the desired stiffness. Furthermore, in some applications, particularly around sensitive parts such as a Compact Disk (CD) drive or Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) drive, the strength of the walls enclosing the CD/DVD drive need to substantially resist deflections to prevent damage to the CD/DVD drive. As an example, in some of today's portable computers, a deflection of more than ½ millimeter around the CD/DVD drive can damage the sensitive parts of the CD/DVD drive. The ability of housing to sufficiently resist such deflection is becoming increasingly difficult as base housing become thinner and provide industrial design features. As an example, in the case of a portable computer, one test that can be applied to test deflection is that a base housing must not deflect more than ½ millimeter when put under a 10 lb. force.
Thus, there is a need for improved housings for computing devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Broadly speaking, the invention relates to an improved housing for a computing device. A first aspect of the invention pertains to an illuminable connector suitable for use with the computing device. A second aspect of the invention pertains to a touch pad arrangement also suitable for use with the computing device. Both the illuminable connector and the touch pad arrangement can be provided on external portions of a housing of the computing device such that they are available for user interaction. A third aspect of the invention pertains to a palm rest stiffening plate.
The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as an apparatus, a device, a method, and a computer system. Several embodiments of the invention are discussed below.
As an illuminable connector for use with a computer having a light source, one embodiment of the invention includes a connector configured to transmit signals to and from the computer, and a light emitting enclosure having a light receiving area and an illuminating area. The light emitting enclosure is configured to direct light from the light source through said light emitting enclosure from the light receiving area to the illuminating area, and said light emitting enclosure is disposed around the outer periphery of said connector.
As a computer system, one embodiment of the invention includes a light source, a computer housing configured to enclose said light source, and an illuminable connector provided at an outer peripheral surface of said computer housing. The illuminable connector including a connector configured to transmit signals to and from said computer system, and a light emitting enclosure having a light receiving area and an illuminating area. The light emitting enclosure being configured to direct light from said light source through said light emitting enclosure from the light receiving area to the illuminating area, and said light emitting enclosure being disposed around the outer periphery of said connector.
As a method for illuminating a translucent connector that is connected to an outer peripheral surface of a computer housing, one embodiment of the invention includes the acts of: transmitting light from a light source enclosed in the computer housing; receiving the transmitted light at a light receiving portion of the translucent connector; directing the transmitted light from the light receiving portion of the translucent connector through the translucent connector to an outer periphery of the translucent connector such that light is directed outward away from the outer periphery of the computer housing.
As a touch pad apparatus, one embodiment of the invention includes: a housing having an outer surface and an opening through said housing, said housing further including a first recess within the outer surface about the opening to produce a first recessed surface; and a track pad said track pad being disposed in the first recess.
As a portable computer housing, one embodiment of the invention includes: a bottom portion providing a bottom surface for said portable computer housing; a top portion providing a top surface for said portable computer housing, said top surface having a palm rest region; and a stiffener affixed to an inner surface of the palm rest region of said top portion. The top portion and said bottom portion are coupled together to form said portable computer housing. The stiffener operates to provide stiffness to the palm rest region substantially beyond the stiffness otherwise provided by said top portion.
As a stiffening system for providing strength to a portable computer housing, one embodiment of the invention includes a computer housing and a stiffening plate. The computer housing including at least a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion has an inner surface and an outer surface, and the top portion includes a palm rest region on the outer surface. The bottom portion is configured to be coupled to the top portion such that said top portion and said bottom portion when coupled together form said portable computer housing. The stiffening plate is configured to be coupled to the inner surface of said top portion of said computer housing and the stiffening plate is configured to strengthen said palm rest region.
Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention, together with further advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a portable computer;
FIG. 2 illustrates an illuminable connector arranged on a portable computer;
FIG. 3 depicts a side and front view of an illuminable connector according to one embodiment of the invention;
FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams of a side view and a perspective view of a touch pad system according to one embodiment of the invention;
FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a stiffening plate according to one embodiment of the invention; and
FIG. 6 is a diagram of a portion of a top portion of a base housing for use with a computer system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention pertains to an improved housing for a computing device. More particularly, a first aspect of the invention pertains to an illuminable connector suitable for use with the computing device. A second aspect of the invention pertains to a touch pad arrangement also suitable for use with the computing device. Both the illuminable connector and the touch pad arrangement can be provided on external portions of a housing of the computing device such that they are available for user interaction. A third aspect of the invention pertains to a palm rest stiffening plate.
Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1-6. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments.
FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a portable computer 100. The portable computer 100 includes a base 102 and a lid 104. The base 102 houses internally various integrated circuit chips and other circuitry to provide computing operations for the portable computer 100. The integrated circuit chips and other circuitry include a microprocessor, Read-Only Memory (ROM), Random-Access Memory (RAM), a disk drive, a battery, and various input/output (I/O) support circuitry. The base 102 also includes a keyboard 106 that allows a user of the portable computer 100 to enter alphanumeric data. The base 102 also includes a track pad 108 and associated buttons 110 and 112. The track pad 108 is an input device for the portable computer 100 and generally represents an input pointer device. The associated buttons 110 and 112 allow a user to make a selection with respect to a graphical user interface. The track pad 108 and the buttons 110 and 112 are located in an upper, front area of the base 102 referred to as a palm rest 113. Additionally, the base 102 includes a power switch 114 and miscellaneous switches 116.
The lid 104 is coupled to the base 102 by way of a hinge mechanism (not shown). As such, the lid 104 can rotate into an open position or a closed position with respect to the base 102. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the lid 104 is in the open position. The lid 104 contains a liquid crystal display (LCD) 118. The LCD display 118 is visible to a user of the portable computer 100 when the lid 104 is in the open position, such as illustrated in FIG. 1. The LCD display 118 is used to display the graphical user interface (including perhaps a pointer or cursor) as well as other information to the user. The LCD display 118 is surrounded at a peripheral region by a bezel 120 that serves to support the LCD display 118 in its assembled position within the lid 104. When the lid 104 is in a closed position, an outer surface 122 of the lid 104 is visible but the LCD display 118 and the bezel 120 are no longer visible to the user.
According to a first aspect of the invention, a connector with an illuminable enclosure is provided. In one embodiment, the illumination provided is used to show a computer user (operator) whether or not a connection is made between a plug and a socket that are operatively coupled together. For ease of discussion, the term “illuminable connector” herein refers to a connector that includes an illuminable enclosure.
In one embodiment of the invention, the illuminable connector is structurally coupled to a surface of a computer housing. FIG. 2 illustrates an illuminable connector 200 arranged on a portable computer 202. The portable computer 200 is, for example, a side view of the portable computer 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. The portable computer 200 includes a base 204 and a lid 206 which respectively correspond to the base 102 and the lid 104 illustrated in FIG. 1. The portable computer 200 is illustrated in the closed position in FIG. 2.
The illuminable connector 202 can be provided on any side of the portable computer 200. Typically, the illuminable connector 202 is coupled to a peripheral surface of the base 204 (or base housing). The base 204 is arranged to have an opening for the illuminable connector 202. The illuminable connector 202 is provided in the opening so that not only is the illuminable connector 202 accessible for the purpose of inserting or removing a plug with respect to the illuminable connector 202 but also any illumination provided at the illuminable connector 202 can be seen by a computer operator.
In one embodiment, the illuminable connector 202 includes a socket (e.g., female) end of a connection that is structurally coupled to a peripheral surface of a computer housing. The illuminable connector 202 is made in part with a light guiding material that directs light from a light source internal to the computer housing to outside the computer housing. In a first embodiment, when a plug is operatively coupled to the socket, the light source is turned on so as to illuminate the illuminable connector 202. With the first embodiment, the light source is off when the plug is not operatively coupled to the socket (i.e., no illumination). In a second embodiment, when the plug is operatively coupled to the socket, the light source is turned off and when the plug is not operatively coupled to the socket the light source is on. Both the first and second embodiments can thus advantageously display, to a computer operator, whether or not a proper connection has been made between the plug and the socket. Namely, the presence or absence of light is able to be associated with connection or no connection.
FIG. 3 depicts a side and front view of an illuminable connector 310 according to one embodiment of the invention. The illuminable connector 310 has a connector 312 and a light emitting enclosure 314. The connector 312 is configured to transmit electrical signals to and from a computer. For example, the connector 312 may provide an audio/visual connection, a telephony connection, a serial connection (e.g., Universal Serial Bus), or a parallel connection. However, it should be noted that the connector 312 is not limited by these types of connections and that any connection that uses a connector for electrical transmitting signals to and from a computer may be used. Typically, the connections are provided by a plug connector (e.g., male) and a socket connector (e.g., female) that operatively couple an external device to a computer. As an example, the external device can be a peripheral device. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the connector 312 is a socket connector. In other embodiment, it may be desirable to make the connector 12 a plug connector.
The light emitting enclosure 314 is configured to be disposed around the outer periphery of the connector 312. That is, the light emitting enclosure 314 has an inner peripheral shape that coincides with at least a portion of an external peripheral shape of the connector 312. The outer peripheral shape of light emitting enclosure 314 can be configured in a wide range of shapes, including circle, square, rectangle, triangle, polygon, or logos. In other words, the light emitting enclosure 314 can take any shape that substantially surrounds the connector 312. The light emitting enclosure 314 may be structurally coupled to the connector 312 or may include an opening that allows connector 312 to be fitted therein. Also, the light emitting enclosure 314 may be configured to contact at least a portion of a surface of the connector 12 or may include a gap therebetween. Although FIG. 3 shows only one configuration (i.e., circular) for the connector 312 and the light emitting enclosure 314, it should be noted that this is not a limitation on the invention and that any configuration, depending on the type of connector used and the desired outer peripheral shape of the enclosure, can be used.
Furthermore, the light emitting enclosure 314 includes a light receiving area 316, a light directing area 318, and an illuminating area 320. The light receiving area 316 is configured to transmit light from a light source 322 to the light directing area 318. In most situations, the light receiving area 316 is formed to substantially adjacent to the light source 22 to efficiently couple light from the light source 322 to the light receiving area 316. Additionally, the light directing area 318 is arranged to direct the transmitted light from the light receiving area 316 to the illuminating area 320. In this manner, when the light source 322 is transmitting light, the transmitted light illuminates an illuminating area 320. By way of example, the light directing area 318 may be a reflecting surface of the light emitting enclosure 14 that reflects the transmitted light from light receiving area 316 towards the illuminating area 320. The dimensions and orientation of the reflecting surface are arranged such that the reflected light is transmitted to the illuminating area 320. Moreover, the reflecting surface may be disposed internal or external to the light emitting enclosure 314. However, it should be noted that the light directing area 318 may not be needed and that the light from the light source may be transmitted directly from the light receiving area 316 to the illuminating area 320.
Additionally, the illuminating area 320 is configured to transmit the directed light outward away from the illuminable connector 310 so as to illuminate the light emitting enclosure 314 when the light source 322 is turned on. Basically, the illuminating area 320 is a surface on the light emitting enclosure 314 that is luminous when the light source 322 is turned on. In most instances, the illuminating area 320 is at least partially located on the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314. However, the illuminating area 320 is not limited to the distal face (i.e., front portion) and may be any surface of the illuminable enclosure including side and top portions. The distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 may be planar or non-planar. Additionally, the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 may also be recessed, flush or extend out relative to the distal face of the connector 312.
The material that forms the illuminable enclosure must be suitable to facilitate the transmission of light therethrough. Accordingly, the material must exhibit suitable translucent characteristics for proper operation. It may be advantageous if the material is easily formable to different types of shapes including both simple and complex geometries. Additionally, the material could also be determined with reference to the environment it will be used in, such as impact strength and temperature. In some implementations, such materials are easily formed by certain types of plastics or other translucent materials. In one embodiment, the material can be composed of polycarbonate, although other suitable materials may be used as well.
As noted above, the illuminable connector 310 is often structurally coupled to a peripheral surface of a computer housing. For example, the portable computer 200 (namely, base 204) may have an opening that is configured to hold the illuminable connector 310 on the inside peripheral surface of the base 204 and to provide illumination viewing space for the illuminating area 320 of the illuminable connector 310. Additionally, the distal face of the light emitting enclosure 314 may be recessed, flush or extend outward relative to the outer peripheral surface of the base 204. Also, the illuminable connector 310 is normally positioned on a front, back or side surface of the base 204, but can also be positioned on a surface of the lid 206.
The base 204 of the portable computer 200 is normally configured to enclose the light source 322 (see FIG. 3)) and other components (e.g., hardware circuitry) associated with a computer. In one embodiment the light source 322 is a light emitting diode. In one implementation, the light source 322 is affixed to a printed circuit board 324 that is provided within the base 204 as part of the components (e.g., hardware circuitry). Here, the illuminable connector 310 is also affixed relative to the printed circuit board (and thus the light source 322). However, various other types of light sources that can fit inside a computer housing can be used. Further, although the illuminable connector 310 can use a single light source, more than one light source can also be used. For example, the illuminable connector 310 can used a pair of light receiving areas 316 and a corresponding pair of light sources (one disposed on each side).
The illumination of the illumination area 320 can signal a computer operator (or user) whether or not a proper connection is made with the illuminable connector 320. More particularly, when an operative connection is made between the socket (or plug) of the illuminable connector 320 and an external plug (or socket), light is transmitted by the light source, thereby illuminating the illumination area 320 external to the computer housing such that the computer operator is visually notified that a proper connection was made. Here, the light source 322 is activated once the circuitry within the portable computer 200 determines that an external plug (or socket) has been properly connected.
Alternatively, the light source may be configured to be on when a connection is not made and off when a connection is made. Advantageously, in dark situations, a computer operator would be able to see the illuminable connector and make the proper connection with an external plug or socket.
The advantages of the first aspect of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments or implementations may have one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that illumination of the connector provides information not only as to location of the connector but also whether or not a proper connection is made. Another advantage of the invention is that the light used to provide the illumination is provided internal to a computer housing and directed towards an illumination area of the connector located at the periphery of the computer housing. Still another advantage of the invention is that the illumination area of the connector can be formed into various different shapes or configurations for design considerations.
According to a second aspect of the invention, a touch pad arrangement for a computer is provided. In one embodiment, the touch pad is arranged with a palm rest of a computer system.
A touch pad, sometimes referred to as “a pressure sensitive tablet” or a “track pad”, is an input device that typically is configured to move a pointer (or cursor) on a display screen (e.g., LCD display 118). The movement of an object, such as a finger or stylus, across the touch pad causes the pointer to move in a similar direction on the screen. Although touch pads can be provided in different apparatus, typically touch pads are provided on portable computers. For example, the computer system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes the touch pad 108 and the associated buttons 110 and 112 at the palm rest 113.
Conventionally, a base housing for the portable computer is provided with an opening in the palm rest to provide access to a touch pad. A user (with finger to stylus) is able to use the touch pad through the opening in the palm rest. The touch pad is typically attached with a bracket structure to the inside surface of the base housing such that the touch pad is held in place and accessible through the opening in the palm rest. Unfortunately, the conventional approaches to attaching the touch pad to the base housing lead to problems. One problem with conventional approaches is that assembly is difficult because the touch pad is assembled and held in place from the inside of the base housing (i.e., from the underside of the palm rest). Another problem with conventional approaches is that the touch pad is necessarily recessed below the top surface of the palm rest by the thickness of the base housing at the palm rest which tends to be bothersome for users.
The touch pad arrangement for a computer according to the second aspect of the invention overcomes these problems with the conventional approaches. According to the invention, the touch pad arrangement provides for simplified assembly. The assembly of the touch pad to the palm rest is from the outside. The base housing is provided with a multi-recessed opening in the palm rest to receive the touch pad as well as a protective label that is placed over the touch pad. Additionally, once assembled, the touch pad is substantially flush with the outer surface of the base housing, thereby providing better ease of use.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams of a side view and a perspective view of a touch pad system 410 according to one embodiment of the invention. The touch pad system 410 (not drawn to scale for ease of discussion) includes a track pad housing 412, a track pad 414 and a track pad label 416. Typically, track pad housing 412 is part of a computer housing (e.g., base housing or palm rest). However, it should be noted that the track pad housing 412 could be associated with other apparatuses besides a computer housing.
The track pad housing 412 has an outer surface 418 that includes an opening 420. As shown in FIG. 4B, the opening extends through the outer surface 418 to allow for wiring (not shown) of the track pad 414 to be provided internal to the computer housing. The track pad housing 412 also has a first recess 422 and a second recess 424 provided about the opening 420. The first recess 422 has a first recessed surface 426, and the second recess 424 has a second recessed surface 428. The first recess 422 is configured to coincide with the shape of the track pad 414 such that the track pad 414 will fit in the first recess 422 and against the first recessed surface 416. The second recess 424 is configured to coincide with the shape of the track pad label 416. The circumference of the second recess 424 is greater than the circumference of the first recess 422. When assembled, the track pad label 416 fits within the second recess 424 and over the track pad 414. In one embodiment, the depth of the first recess 422 is substantially the same as the thickness of the track pad 414, and the depth of the second recess 424 is substantially the same as the thickness of the track pad label 416.
The track pad 414 includes an input surface 30 that is configured to receive user inputs (e.g., top surface of the track pad). The track pad 414 can detect the user inputs in a variety of ways including pressure and capacitance. The track pad label 416 serves to protect the track pad 414 from foreign matter (e.g., fluids, dust, etc.) by sealing against the outer surface 418 in at least the second recessed surface. Preferably, the track pad label 416 is used to protect the input surface 430 of the track pad 414. Correspondingly, the track pad label 416 includes a contact surface 432 and an adhesive surface 434. The adhesive surface 434 is used to couple the track pad label 416 to the track pad 414 and the second recessed surface 428.
During assembly, the track pad 414 is disposed inside the first recess 422 and adjacent to the first recessed surface 426. In one embodiment, the input surface 430 of the track pad 414 is substantially flush with the second recessed surface 428 when the track pad 414 is disposed inside the first recess 422 and adjacent to the first recessed surface 426. Additionally, after the track pad 414 is placed, the track pad label 416 is disposed inside the second recess 424 and over to the track pad 414 and the second recessed surface 428 such that the adhesive surface 434 substantially covers the track pad and the second surface. The entire adhesive surface 434 need not have adhesive thereon, only the peripheral portion need contain adhesive. Once the track pad label 416 is placed, the contact surface 432 of the track pad label 416 is substantially flush with the outer surface 418 of the track pad housing 412.
Moreover, the contact surface 432 of the track pad label 416 can optionally include a ridge that surrounds the perimeter of the track pad 414. In one embodiment, the ridge can serve as a boundary to the input area for the touch pad system 410. When the combination of the track pad 414 and the track pad label 416 are flush with the track pad housing 418, the ridge serves to provide a user of the track pad system 410 with context as to where the boundaries are for the input area where the touch pad system 410 is active. FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate the track pad label 416 with a ridge 436 according to one embodiment of the invention. The ridge 436 extends in a direction outward from the contact surface 432. The ridge 436 should be dimensioned to be large enough for finger or stylus sensitivity. In one implementation, the ridge 436 coincides above the outer perimeter of the track pad 414.
The advantages of the second aspect of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments or implementations may have one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that assembly of a track pad (touch pad) into a housing, such as the base housing of a portable computer, is greatly simplified. Another advantage of the invention is that a track pad (touch pad) is able to be mounted flush with an outer surface of its housing, namely flush with a palm rest surface of a base housing of a portable computer.
A third aspect of the invention pertains to a stiffening plate (stiffener plate) for a housing associated with a computer. The invention is particularly suitable for a palm rest stiffening plate for use with a palm rest of a portable computer. For example, the portable computer 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes the palm rest 113 positioned on an upper, front area of the base 102. Furthermore, the stiffening plate may be configured to provide stiffness around other weak points of the computer housing. For example, the stiffening plate may be used to stiffen the weak sections of the computer housing around the CD/DVD drive and keyboard, where the housing has limited structure and support.
The stiffening plate is configured to increase the strength of the housing, which advantageously allows the thickness of the computer housing walls to be decreased. In most instances, decreased wall thickness reduces the overall thickness and weight of the computer, both of which are desired to make a portable computer lighter and thinner.
FIG. 5A illustrates a stiffening plate 510 according to one embodiment of the invention. The stiffening plate 510 is formed from a material having rigid strength and lightweight properties. In one embodiment, the stiffening plate 510 is stamped and formed from an aluminum sheet. In a preferred embodiment, the stiffening plate is formed from a 5052 series aluminum sheet having a 0.5 mm thickness. Although the stiffening plate is preferably made from aluminum, it should be noted that any material that is substantially rigid (e.g., providing stiffness), while being lightweight and relatively thin may be used.
The stiffening plate 510 also includes a plurality of dimples 512 that serve to increase the stiffness (i.e., shear strength) of the stiffening plate 510 when adhered to an adjacent surface such as a computer housing. Preferably, the dimples when adhered to an adjacent surface create a box like structure at each of the dimple positions. That is, the dimples and the surface form a corrugated laminate structure, which provides a stiff structure having good shearing strength. Referring to FIG. 5B, an example of a dimple box structure 514 is shown. The dimple box structure 514 includes stiffening plate 510 having dimples 512. Preferably, dimples 510 provide flat surfaces 515 that are coupled to a surface 516 with an adhesive 518. For the most part, each dimple 512 represents a glue joint for adhering the stiffening plate 510 to a surface 516. Advantageously, when the combination of the stiffening plate 510, surface 516 and adhesive 518 is bonded together, a plurality of joined boxes (e.g., honeycomb) are created which yield the desired shear strength. For example, such a structure can enable a thin, lightweight housing to withstand deflection of more than ½ millimeter when put under a 10 lb. force.
Furthermore, the plurality of dimples 512 have a dimple depth 520. As is well known in the art, the greater the depth of the dimple, the greater the stiffness of the structure. However, the dimple depth is generally constrained by the overall thickness of the computer and the adjacent internal structures. For that reason, the dimples are preferably configured to be shallow so as not to impact the overall thickness of the stiffening plate 510. In one embodiment, the dimple depth is about 0.8 mm. Correspondingly, the overall height of the stiffening plate is about 1.3 mm.
Referring back to FIG. 5A, the dimples 512 are patterned to maximize the strength of the stiffening plate 510. Additionally, it should be noted that the dimples 512 are not a limitation and that other manufacturing process that increases the strength of the stiffening plate may be used. For example, a stamped protrusion 522 may also be used in conjunction with the dimples to form the corrugated like structure. Furthermore, a formed edge 524 at the perimeter of the stiffening plate may also be used to increase the stiffness of the stiffening plate.
The stiffening plate 510 is also configured to provide openings 526 for features such as connectors, wires and other computer components (e.g., track pad, buttons). Furthermore, stiffening plate 510 may include holes 528 for reducing the overall weight of the stiffening plate 510. Additionally, the stiffening plate 510 may include protrusions and/or depressions that coincide with the housing shape. Also, as is appreciated by those skilled in the art, Aluminum can be easily formed (e.g., coining or stamping), and therefore many design features may be configured into the stiffening plate.
By way of example, the computer housing may be the base 102 of a portable computer 100 as shown in FIG. 1). In most situations, a base housing (or base) includes the top portion and a bottom portion. Typically, the bottom portion is configured to be coupled to the top portion such that when the top portion and the bottom portion are coupled together they form the base of the portable computer.
FIG. 6 is a diagram of a portion of a top portion 618 of a base housing for use with a computer system. An outer surface of the top portion 618 of the housing has a palm rest (e.g., palm rest 113 of FIG. 1). The palm rest provides a space for resting the palms of the portable computer user while the user types or uses a track pad on the portable computer. Because the palm rest is load bearing (e.g., weight of the user's palms) it is required to be strong (e.g., to prevent bowing or unduly flexing). To be able to support such a load, the inner surface of the top portion 618 includes a stiffening plate 610. The stiffening plate 610 can, for example, be the stiffening plate 510 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. More particularly, the stiffening plate 610 is affixed against the inner surface of the top portion 618 of the computer housing. In one implementation, the stiffening plate 610 has a shape that is configured to coincide with the at least a portion of the shape of the palm rest. Correspondingly, the laminate structure of the top portion and the stiffening plate 610 preferably provides the required strength for supporting the palm rest. It should be noted that the stiffening plate 610 is not limited to only stiffening the palm rest region of a housing and that it may be used to stiffen other portions of a computer housing as well.
Moreover, the stiffening plate 610 is affixed to the inner surface of the top portion 618 with an adhesive (not shown). Namely, in one embodiment, adhesive can be placed at each dimple and thus serves to bond the dimples to a mating region of the inner surface of the top portion 618 (see FIG. 5B). In one implementation, the adhesive is a two part epoxy that bonds well between the material of the stiffening plate and the material of the top portion. Characteristically, this material provides good shear strength when combine with these two materials. In one embodiment, the stiffening plate is formed from aluminum and the top portion is formed from plastic (e.g., polycarbonate ABS). In some implementations, the top portion is nickel plated plastic. Preferably, in this implementation, the two part epoxy is a Lord 201 adhesive made by Lord Corp. of Erie, Pa. It should be noted that other types of adhesives can be used so long as they form a laminate bond with good shear strength between the stiffener and the top portion.
Additionally, it should be noted that other fastening means may be used (e.g. screws, bolts, heat staked) to couple the stiffening plate to the top portion, but none will produce the strength provided by the permanent laminate structure that uses an adhesive as described above. In fact, in one embodiment, heat stakes are used to properly align the stiffening plate on the top portion during manufacturing. Typically, screws and bolts have too much weight and over time may come loose. Additionally, heat stakes overtime will become stressed and possibly break wherein the stiffening plate may come loose or may break off.
The stiffening plate 610 can also include a first plate opening 620 and the top portion 618 can include a first top portion opening 622. Both the first plate opening 620 and the first top portion opening 622 are dimensioned to fit around a portion of a track pad (not shown). In most situations, the first top portion opening 620 provides an opening for a track pad provided in the palm rest of the top portion 618. Furthermore, the stiffening plate includes a recess (not shown) that provides a mounting surface for the track pad. In this configuration, the recess traps and holds the track pad in position between the stiffening plate and the top portion 618.
Moreover, the stiffening plate 610 includes extensions 624 and the top portion 618 includes a second top portion opening 626. The second top portion opening 626 is dimensioned to fit around (i.e., not interfere with) a portion of a set of keys of a keyboard. Correspondingly, the extensions 624 are configured to surround a portion of the second top portion opening 626. In this manner, the extensions increase the stiffness at a potential weak area 628 between the location of the key pad and the CD/DVD drive opening in the top portion 618.
Additionally, the configuration and placement of the stiffening plate may cause the stiffening plate to act like an antenna. Therefore, the conductive stiffening plate should be grounded. In one embodiment, to provide grounding, at least one EMI (electromagnetic interference) gasket 630 is disposed between the top portion 618 and the stiffening plate 610 to ground the stiffening plate 610 to the top portion 618. It should be noted that more than one EMI gasket may be needed to provide adequate grounding, and therefore the present invention is not limited by one EMI gasket and that a plurality of EMI gaskets may be used. In one case, the EMI gaskets 630 is a strip of foam surrounded by a conductive material. In this manner, the foam provides a spring-like surface that ensures contact between the stiffening plate and the top portion which itself has a conductive inner coating (e.g., nickel plated plastic).
Accordingly, the third aspect of the invention provides significant improvements to the structure, ruggedness and strength of the base housing (e.g., palm rest portion) of a computer. Furthermore, through use of a stiffening plate, the palm rest portion is able to be thin, but extremely stiff, and thus the housing as whole can have a reduced in thickness. The stiffening the palm rest is also achieved with a relatively small amount of additional weight. Additionally, the stiffening plate creates such a stiff structure that the materials that form the internal housings for parts such as the enclosure for the CD/DVD drive could be changed to less rigid and thus less weighted materials. Basically, the stiffer housing makes it possible to have a less stiff structure around the CD/DVD drive to support it. For example, the CD/DVD support could be changed from steel to aluminum. Therefore, the third aspect invention supports the further reduction in thickness and weight for portable computers.
Although the invention is particularly well suited for use in a computer system, namely a portable computer system, the invention is not limited to use in computer systems. The invention is suitable for other devices or apparatuses that include a touch pad or track pad.
The advantages of the second aspect of the invention are numerous. Different embodiments or implementations may have one or more of the following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that assembly is simplified which reduces manufacturing costs associated with labor and parts. Another advantage of the invention is that the flush design improves user satisfaction.
The many features and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the written description, and thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims (23)

1. A computing device, comprising:
a housing that encloses internally various electronic components that provide computing operations to the computing device;
a pair of light emitting diodes disposed inside the housing and configured to illuminate an outer surface of the housing; and
a translucent region provided at the outer surface of the housing, the translucent region including a light receiving area and an illumination area, the translucent portion being configured to direct light from the pair of light emitting diodes through the translucent portion from the light receiving area to the illuminating area, the illuminating area forming a surface portion of the outer surface of the housing that is luminous when the pair of light emitting diodes are providing light internal to the housing.
2. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the light receiving area is substantially adjacent to the pair of light emitting diodes to efficiently couple light from the light emitting diodes to the light receiving area.
3. The computing device as recited in claim 1 further including a light directing area arranged to direct the transmitted light from the light receiving area to the illuminating area.
4. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the light directing area includes a reflecting surface that reflects the transmitted light from the light receiving area towards the illuminating area.
5. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the reflecting surface is disposed internal to the translucent portion.
6. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the reflecting surface is disposed external to the translucent portion.
7. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the surface portion is planar.
8. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the surface portion is non-planar.
9. The computing device as recited in claim 1 wherein the pair of light emitting diodes are affixed to a printed circuit board that is provided within the housing.
10. A method for illuminating a computer housing, comprising:
transmitting light from a pair of light emitting diodes enclosed in the computer housing;
receiving the transmitted light at a light receiving portion of the computer housing;
directing the transmitted light from the light receiving portion of the computer housing to the outer periphery of the computer housing such that light is made to illuminate the computer housing.
11. The method as recited in claim 10 wherein the light receiving portion is substantially adjacent to the pair of light emitting diodes to efficiently couple light from the light emitting diodes to the light receiving portion.
12. The method as recited in claim 11 wherein the computer housing further includes a light directing area, the method further comprising
directing the transmitted light from the light receiving area to the illuminating area by the light directing area.
13. The method as recited in claim 12 wherein the light directing area includes a reflecting surface, the method further comprising:
reflecting the transmitted light from the light receiving area towards the illuminating area by the reflecting surface.
14. The method as recited in claim 13 wherein the reflecting surface is disposed internal to the translucent portion.
15. The method as recited in claim 13 wherein the reflecting surface is disposed external to the translucent portion.
16. The method as recited in claim 10 wherein the pair of light emitting diodes are affixed to a printed circuit board that is provided within the housing.
17. Computer program product for illuminating a computer housing, comprising:
computer code for transmitting light from a pair of light emitting diodes enclosed in the computer housing;
computer code for receiving the transmitted light at a light receiving portion of the computer housing;
computer code for directing the transmitted light from the light receiving portion of the computer housing to the outer periphery of the computer housing such that light is made to illuminate the computer housing; and
computer readable medium for storing the computer code.
18. Computer program product as recited in claim 17 wherein the light receiving portion is substantially adjacent to the pair of light emitting diodes to efficiently couple light from the light emitting diodes to the light receiving portion.
19. Computer program product as recited in claim 11 wherein the computer housing further includes a light directing area, the computer program product further comprising
computer code for directing the transmitted light from the light receiving area to the illuminating area by the light directing area.
20. Computer program product as recited in claim 19 wherein the light directing area includes a reflecting surface, the computer program product further comprising:
computer code for reflecting the transmitted light from the light receiving area towards the illuminating area by the reflecting surface.
21. Computer program product as recited in claim 20 wherein the reflecting surface is disposed internal to the translucent portion.
22. Computer program product as recited in claim 21 wherein the reflecting surface is disposed external to the translucent portion.
23. Computer program product as recited in claim 17 wherein the pair of light emitting diodes are affixed to a printed circuit board that is provided within the housing.
US11/169,608 1999-05-14 2005-06-28 Housing for a computing device Expired - Lifetime US7443388B1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/169,608 US7443388B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2005-06-28 Housing for a computing device
US12/212,550 US8256913B2 (en) 1999-05-14 2008-09-17 Housing for a computing device

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13408499P 1999-05-14 1999-05-14
US09/426,408 US6357887B1 (en) 1999-05-14 1999-10-25 Housing for a computing device
US10/013,126 US6933929B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2001-12-07 Housing for a computing device
US11/169,608 US7443388B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2005-06-28 Housing for a computing device

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/013,126 Continuation US6933929B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2001-12-07 Housing for a computing device

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/212,550 Continuation US8256913B2 (en) 1999-05-14 2008-09-17 Housing for a computing device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US7443388B1 true US7443388B1 (en) 2008-10-28

Family

ID=26831949

Family Applications (5)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/426,408 Expired - Lifetime US6357887B1 (en) 1999-05-14 1999-10-25 Housing for a computing device
US10/013,126 Expired - Lifetime US6933929B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2001-12-07 Housing for a computing device
US10/012,751 Active 2026-03-29 US7804487B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2001-12-07 Housing for a computing device
US11/169,608 Expired - Lifetime US7443388B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2005-06-28 Housing for a computing device
US12/212,550 Expired - Lifetime US8256913B2 (en) 1999-05-14 2008-09-17 Housing for a computing device

Family Applications Before (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/426,408 Expired - Lifetime US6357887B1 (en) 1999-05-14 1999-10-25 Housing for a computing device
US10/013,126 Expired - Lifetime US6933929B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2001-12-07 Housing for a computing device
US10/012,751 Active 2026-03-29 US7804487B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2001-12-07 Housing for a computing device

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/212,550 Expired - Lifetime US8256913B2 (en) 1999-05-14 2008-09-17 Housing for a computing device

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (5) US6357887B1 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20080122793A1 (en) * 2006-07-07 2008-05-29 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Input device
US20090009350A1 (en) * 1999-05-14 2009-01-08 Apple Inc. Housing for a computing device
US20090135579A1 (en) * 2007-11-27 2009-05-28 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Touch pad having electromagnetic interference shielding plate
US20090140979A1 (en) * 2007-11-30 2009-06-04 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Electronic apparatus
US20100020028A1 (en) * 2006-08-23 2010-01-28 Patrice Laurent Control Module, In Particular For An Automotive Vehicle
US8264167B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2012-09-11 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US20140016291A1 (en) * 2010-04-12 2014-01-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Electronic apparatus
US20220214724A1 (en) * 2021-01-04 2022-07-07 Apple Inc. Electronic device display

Families Citing this family (88)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6888322B2 (en) * 1997-08-26 2005-05-03 Color Kinetics Incorporated Systems and methods for color changing device and enclosure
US7385359B2 (en) * 1997-08-26 2008-06-10 Philips Solid-State Lighting Solutions, Inc. Information systems
US6871978B2 (en) * 1998-11-13 2005-03-29 Lightpath Technologies, Inc. Computer keyboard backlighting
US7335843B2 (en) * 1998-11-13 2008-02-26 Firefly International, Inc. Computer keyboard backlighting
US20080212307A1 (en) * 1998-11-13 2008-09-04 Chan Sam E J Computer keyboard backlighting
US20090091478A1 (en) * 1998-11-13 2009-04-09 Chan Sam E J Computer keyboard backlighting
US6977808B2 (en) * 1999-05-14 2005-12-20 Apple Computer, Inc. Display housing for computing device
EP1474735B1 (en) * 2001-06-15 2006-10-11 Apple Computer, Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US7113196B2 (en) * 2001-06-15 2006-09-26 Apple Computer, Inc. Computing device with dynamic ornamental appearance
US7452098B2 (en) * 2001-06-15 2008-11-18 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US7345671B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2008-03-18 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for use of rotational user inputs
US20070085841A1 (en) * 2001-10-22 2007-04-19 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for accelerated scrolling
US7046230B2 (en) * 2001-10-22 2006-05-16 Apple Computer, Inc. Touch pad handheld device
US7312785B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2007-12-25 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for accelerated scrolling
US7333092B2 (en) 2002-02-25 2008-02-19 Apple Computer, Inc. Touch pad for handheld device
TW591507B (en) * 2003-01-15 2004-06-11 Asustek Comp Inc Notebook computer with non-hole type touch pad and manufacturing method thereof
US7633492B2 (en) * 2003-01-15 2009-12-15 Asustek Computer Inc. Notebook computer with hidden touch pad
KR100727663B1 (en) * 2003-08-11 2007-06-13 엘지전자 주식회사 A touch pad apparatus for portable computer
US20070152977A1 (en) * 2005-12-30 2007-07-05 Apple Computer, Inc. Illuminated touchpad
US7499040B2 (en) * 2003-08-18 2009-03-03 Apple Inc. Movable touch pad with added functionality
US20060181517A1 (en) * 2005-02-11 2006-08-17 Apple Computer, Inc. Display actuator
US7109977B2 (en) * 2003-10-05 2006-09-19 T2D, Inc. Slipcover touch input apparatus for displays of computing devices
US7495659B2 (en) * 2003-11-25 2009-02-24 Apple Inc. Touch pad for handheld device
US8059099B2 (en) * 2006-06-02 2011-11-15 Apple Inc. Techniques for interactive input to portable electronic devices
US7995037B2 (en) * 2004-03-05 2011-08-09 First International Computer, Inc. Hidden touch pad structure
US7167163B2 (en) * 2004-03-05 2007-01-23 First International Computer Inc. Hidden touch pad structure
CN100555200C (en) * 2004-08-16 2009-10-28 苹果公司 The method of the spatial resolution of touch sensitive devices and raising touch sensitive devices
TWI253558B (en) * 2004-09-22 2006-04-21 Asustek Comp Inc Lighting device for case
US7145778B2 (en) * 2004-10-13 2006-12-05 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. System and method for mounting a component in a computer system
US7804966B2 (en) * 2004-12-20 2010-09-28 Fender Musical Instruments Corporation Audio amplifier attachable to speaker system by way of magnetic coupler and method therefor
WO2006092463A1 (en) * 2005-03-03 2006-09-08 Elektrobit Oy Housing, portable wireless communication device and method
US7522108B2 (en) * 2005-08-04 2009-04-21 Amphenol Corporation Antenna ground structure
US20070031555A1 (en) * 2005-08-05 2007-02-08 Axelrod Glen S Direct starch molding
US7671837B2 (en) * 2005-09-06 2010-03-02 Apple Inc. Scrolling input arrangements using capacitive sensors on a flexible membrane
US7880729B2 (en) * 2005-10-11 2011-02-01 Apple Inc. Center button isolation ring
US20070152983A1 (en) * 2005-12-30 2007-07-05 Apple Computer, Inc. Touch pad with symbols based on mode
TWM302223U (en) * 2006-04-03 2006-12-01 Aopen Inc Mainframe with uniform illuminating equipment
US8022935B2 (en) * 2006-07-06 2011-09-20 Apple Inc. Capacitance sensing electrode with integrated I/O mechanism
US9360967B2 (en) * 2006-07-06 2016-06-07 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US8743060B2 (en) * 2006-07-06 2014-06-03 Apple Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US20080006454A1 (en) * 2006-07-10 2008-01-10 Apple Computer, Inc. Mutual capacitance touch sensing device
US7795553B2 (en) 2006-09-11 2010-09-14 Apple Inc. Hybrid button
US20080088597A1 (en) * 2006-10-11 2008-04-17 Apple Inc. Sensor configurations in a user input device
US8274479B2 (en) 2006-10-11 2012-09-25 Apple Inc. Gimballed scroll wheel
US20080099140A1 (en) * 2006-11-01 2008-05-01 Wardein Kevin J Illuminated wood veneer and method of making same
US8482530B2 (en) 2006-11-13 2013-07-09 Apple Inc. Method of capacitively sensing finger position
US7440285B2 (en) * 2006-12-29 2008-10-21 Piranha Plastics, Llc Electronic device housing
KR101391759B1 (en) * 2007-04-25 2014-05-07 삼성전자 주식회사 Portable computer
KR101380749B1 (en) * 2007-04-25 2014-04-03 삼성전자 주식회사 Portable computer
US9654104B2 (en) * 2007-07-17 2017-05-16 Apple Inc. Resistive force sensor with capacitive discrimination
US8063757B2 (en) * 2007-07-18 2011-11-22 Tesla Motors, Inc. Charge state indicator for an electric vehicle
US20090058801A1 (en) * 2007-09-04 2009-03-05 Apple Inc. Fluid motion user interface control
US8683378B2 (en) 2007-09-04 2014-03-25 Apple Inc. Scrolling techniques for user interfaces
WO2009032898A2 (en) * 2007-09-04 2009-03-12 Apple Inc. Compact input device
US20090073130A1 (en) * 2007-09-17 2009-03-19 Apple Inc. Device having cover with integrally formed sensor
US8416198B2 (en) * 2007-12-03 2013-04-09 Apple Inc. Multi-dimensional scroll wheel
US8125461B2 (en) 2008-01-11 2012-02-28 Apple Inc. Dynamic input graphic display
JP2009169576A (en) * 2008-01-15 2009-07-30 Lenovo Singapore Pte Ltd Portable computer
US9460684B2 (en) 2008-01-31 2016-10-04 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. System and method for illuminating connector ports
US8820133B2 (en) 2008-02-01 2014-09-02 Apple Inc. Co-extruded materials and methods
US9454256B2 (en) 2008-03-14 2016-09-27 Apple Inc. Sensor configurations of an input device that are switchable based on mode
JP2009301144A (en) * 2008-06-10 2009-12-24 Fujitsu Ltd Electronic device
US7778015B2 (en) * 2008-07-11 2010-08-17 Apple Inc. Microperforated and backlit displays having alternative display capabilities
US8816967B2 (en) 2008-09-25 2014-08-26 Apple Inc. Capacitive sensor having electrodes arranged on the substrate and the flex circuit
US8436816B2 (en) * 2008-10-24 2013-05-07 Apple Inc. Disappearing button or slider
US8395590B2 (en) * 2008-12-17 2013-03-12 Apple Inc. Integrated contact switch and touch sensor elements
US8487975B2 (en) 2009-01-27 2013-07-16 Lifesize Communications, Inc. Conferencing system utilizing a mobile communication device as an interface
US9354751B2 (en) 2009-05-15 2016-05-31 Apple Inc. Input device with optimized capacitive sensing
US20100300772A1 (en) * 2009-05-28 2010-12-02 Synaptics Incorporated Depressable touch sensor
US8872771B2 (en) * 2009-07-07 2014-10-28 Apple Inc. Touch sensing device having conductive nodes
US20110081839A1 (en) * 2009-10-06 2011-04-07 Apple Inc. Method and apparatus for polishing a curved edge
US8892238B2 (en) * 2009-10-06 2014-11-18 Edward T. Sweet Edge break details and processing
US8111505B2 (en) * 2009-10-16 2012-02-07 Apple Inc. Computer housing
US20110225524A1 (en) * 2010-03-10 2011-09-15 Cifra Christopher G Multi-Touch Editing in a Graphical Programming Language
US8527900B2 (en) * 2010-07-21 2013-09-03 Volkswagen Ag Motor vehicle
US9092082B2 (en) 2010-12-22 2015-07-28 Synaptics Incorporated Methods and apparatus for mounting a touch sensor device
US9204094B2 (en) 2011-06-28 2015-12-01 Lifesize Communications, Inc. Adjusting volume of a videoconference using touch-based gestures
US8605872B2 (en) 2011-06-28 2013-12-10 Lifesize Communications, Inc. Muting a videoconference using touch-based gestures
US8605873B2 (en) 2011-06-28 2013-12-10 Lifesize Communications, Inc. Accessing settings of a videoconference using touch-based gestures
US8782525B2 (en) 2011-07-28 2014-07-15 National Insturments Corporation Displaying physical signal routing in a diagram of a system
US9047007B2 (en) 2011-07-28 2015-06-02 National Instruments Corporation Semantic zoom within a diagram of a system
US8713482B2 (en) 2011-07-28 2014-04-29 National Instruments Corporation Gestures for presentation of different views of a system diagram
TWI464561B (en) * 2012-01-04 2014-12-11 Wistron Corp Thin touch pad module and related manufacturing method
WO2013107474A1 (en) * 2012-01-20 2013-07-25 Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Ab Touch screen, portable electronic device, and method of operating a touch screen
JP2013156965A (en) * 2012-01-31 2013-08-15 Toshiba Corp Television receiver and electronic device
TW201345342A (en) * 2012-04-30 2013-11-01 Pegatron Corp Portable apparatus
WO2020060933A1 (en) * 2018-09-20 2020-03-26 Google Llc Electronic device with housing having stiffener
US11797091B2 (en) * 2021-06-24 2023-10-24 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Computing device with haptic trackpad

Citations (97)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3777222A (en) 1972-05-12 1973-12-04 Ibm Modular touch sensitive indicating panels with touch and light transmissive overlay cover membrane containing visible printed indicia
US4277665A (en) 1979-01-10 1981-07-07 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Illuminated push-button electrical switch
US4789774A (en) 1984-06-30 1988-12-06 Mannesmann Kienzle Gmbh Electronic display device
US4845481A (en) 1986-01-08 1989-07-04 Karel Havel Continuously variable color display device
US4847736A (en) 1988-08-17 1989-07-11 Ho Tze H Illuminated wall vase having removable faces
US5008870A (en) 1988-06-28 1991-04-16 Vessa James R FIFO clock
US5138328A (en) 1991-08-22 1992-08-11 Motorola, Inc. Integral diversity antenna for a laptop computer
US5222076A (en) 1981-04-15 1993-06-22 Ng William K Y Data communication apparatus and method with low power standby mode
US5228562A (en) 1991-09-09 1993-07-20 Gm Nameplate, Inc. Membrane switch and fabrication method
US5305013A (en) 1990-11-13 1994-04-19 Compaq Computer Corp. Disk drive status graphical display
USD348905S (en) 1990-12-27 1994-07-19 Compaq Computer Corporation Decal for identification of an LED indicator on a desktop computer
US5339213A (en) 1992-11-16 1994-08-16 Cirque Corporation Portable computer touch pad attachment
US5387901A (en) 1992-12-10 1995-02-07 Compaq Computer Corporation Led indicating light assembly for a computer housing
US5388357A (en) 1993-04-08 1995-02-14 Computer Power Inc. Kit using led units for retrofitting illuminated signs
US5406729A (en) 1993-05-12 1995-04-18 Lettertech, Inc. Illuminated display
US5422751A (en) 1992-10-14 1995-06-06 Apple Computer, Inc. Liquid crystal display assembly employing front bezel, frame holding liquid crystal cell attached to bezel, and light source and back plate attached to bezel
US5450221A (en) 1993-09-08 1995-09-12 Delco Electronics Corporation Compact liquid crystal display for instrument panel having a wrap around flexible printed circuit board and translucent web
US5479285A (en) 1993-09-01 1995-12-26 Ncr Corporation Liquid crystal device with an isotropic shock mounting and gasket
US5490647A (en) 1993-08-09 1996-02-13 Rice; Gregory H. Palm rest for use with computer data entry devices
US5515244A (en) 1995-04-03 1996-05-07 Apple Computer, Inc. Light-transmitting pipe
US5615945A (en) 1996-03-27 1997-04-01 Noopro Industrial Corporation Lighting device for use with computers
US5644320A (en) 1994-06-30 1997-07-01 Compaq Computer Corporation Antenna system for a notebook computer
US5666261A (en) 1995-09-25 1997-09-09 At&T Global Information Solutions Company Honeycomb celled-sheet layer composite panel for monitoring an LCD to a laptop computer
US5668565A (en) 1994-12-22 1997-09-16 Orbital Science Corporation Flexible feed line for an antenna system
US5677698A (en) 1994-08-18 1997-10-14 Plessey Semiconductors Limited Slot antenna arrangement for portable personal computers
US5684672A (en) 1996-02-20 1997-11-04 International Business Machines Corporation Laptop computer with an integrated multi-mode antenna
US5689400A (en) 1994-05-31 1997-11-18 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Portable electronic apparatus including space-saving component mounting features
US5706168A (en) 1995-07-07 1998-01-06 Itronix Corporation Impact-resistant notebook computer having hard drive mounted on shock-isolating mounting bridge and impact attenuating covering
US5738536A (en) 1993-10-29 1998-04-14 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Portable electronic apparatus having a connector cover which can be housed in a case
US5742120A (en) 1996-05-10 1998-04-21 Rebif Corporation Light-emmiting diode lamp with directional coverage for the emmitted light
US5748084A (en) 1996-11-18 1998-05-05 Isikoff; Jeremy M. Device security system
US5774098A (en) 1992-05-22 1998-06-30 Sony Corporation Indicator
US5777704A (en) 1996-10-30 1998-07-07 International Business Machines Corporation Backlighting an LCD-based notebook computer under varying ambient light conditions
US5781406A (en) 1996-03-05 1998-07-14 Hunte; Stanley G. Computer desktop keyboard cover with built-in monitor screen & wrist-support accessory
US5825351A (en) 1994-05-12 1998-10-20 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for noise filtering for an input device
US5828341A (en) 1996-03-29 1998-10-27 Itronix Corporation Laptop computer having internal radio with interchangeable antenna features
US5867131A (en) 1996-11-19 1999-02-02 International Business Machines Corporation Antenna for a mobile computer
US5870282A (en) 1995-09-15 1999-02-09 Apple Computer, Inc. Reconfigurable enclosure panel for a mobile computer
US5914709A (en) 1997-03-14 1999-06-22 Poa Sana, Llc User input device for a computer system
US5918396A (en) 1996-02-16 1999-07-06 Jung; Hae-Ryong Light box with edge-lit panel
US5920310A (en) 1996-11-15 1999-07-06 Synaptics, Incorporated Electronic device employing a touch sensitive transducer
US5938772A (en) 1997-06-11 1999-08-17 Compaq Computer Corporation Responsive backlit hardwire button array providing illumination and user feedback in a computer
US5966284A (en) 1996-07-31 1999-10-12 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Keyboard mounting apparatus for a portable computer
US5966098A (en) 1996-09-18 1999-10-12 Research In Motion Limited Antenna system for an RF data communications device
US6016038A (en) 1997-08-26 2000-01-18 Color Kinetics, Inc. Multicolored LED lighting method and apparatus
US6018332A (en) 1997-11-21 2000-01-25 Ark Interface Ii, Inc. Overscan user interface
US6030088A (en) 1998-02-02 2000-02-29 Scheinberg; George Clear casing for an electronic component
US6035180A (en) 1997-10-07 2000-03-07 Ericsson Inc. Communication module having selectively programmable exterior surface
US6037679A (en) 1998-11-30 2000-03-14 Pirillo; Paul M. Yard decorations for low voltage table
US6058634A (en) 1997-12-17 2000-05-09 Mcspiritt; James C. Light emitting artwork
US6061037A (en) 1998-03-04 2000-05-09 Tri-Tronics, Inc. Flex antenna structure and method for collar-mounted remote animal training system
US6089893A (en) 1998-01-21 2000-07-18 Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. Illuminated electrical receptacle employing electroluminescent lamp member
US6096984A (en) 1997-01-21 2000-08-01 Dell Usa, L.P. Adjustable touchpad
US6109760A (en) 1998-12-14 2000-08-29 Daimlerchrysler Corporation Illuminated power outlet
US6115762A (en) 1997-03-07 2000-09-05 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. PC wireless communications utilizing an embedded antenna comprising a plurality of radiating and receiving elements responsive to steering circuitry to form a direct antenna beam
US6144552A (en) 1999-04-26 2000-11-07 Emc Corporation Handheld computer system
US6161944A (en) 1999-05-18 2000-12-19 Micron Electronics, Inc. Retractable keyboard illumination device
US6190017B1 (en) 1999-03-10 2001-02-20 Li-Chun Lai Safe electric luminescence night lamp
US6211626B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2001-04-03 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Illumination components
US6217182B1 (en) 1998-04-14 2001-04-17 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Electronic device with display and receptacle for a removable information storage medium
US6224244B1 (en) 1999-03-23 2001-05-01 John L. Burys Automobile panel display accessory
US6259417B1 (en) 1999-08-24 2001-07-10 Lucent Technologies Inc. Collinear antenna for portable radio and methods for making same
US6285420B1 (en) 1995-01-31 2001-09-04 Minolta Co., Ltd. Edge illuminated display device with light guiding member
US6289466B1 (en) 1997-06-11 2001-09-11 Compaq Computer Corporation Usage of monitor bezel buttons to control and indicate multimedia functions
US6292901B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2001-09-18 Color Kinetics Incorporated Power/data protocol
US6320941B1 (en) 1998-01-08 2001-11-20 Dan Tyroler Stand alone electronic mail notifying device
US6357887B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2002-03-19 Apple Computers, Inc. Housing for a computing device
US6370376B1 (en) 1999-03-18 2002-04-09 David J. Sheath Computer cellular communication system
USD457669S1 (en) 2001-08-01 2002-05-21 Color Kinetics, Inc. Novelty light
USD457667S1 (en) 2001-03-21 2002-05-21 Color Kinetics, Inc. Accent light
USD457974S1 (en) 2001-03-23 2002-05-28 Color Kinetics, Inc. Accent light
USD458395S1 (en) 2001-03-22 2002-06-04 Color Kinetics, Inc. Accent light
USD463610S1 (en) 2001-03-13 2002-09-24 Color Kinetics, Inc. Lighting fixture
US6459919B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2002-10-01 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Precision illumination methods and systems
US6476726B1 (en) 1999-08-04 2002-11-05 911 Emergency Products, Inc. LED personal warning light
US6486873B1 (en) 2000-04-06 2002-11-26 Microsoft Corporation Illuminated computer input device
US6492908B1 (en) 1999-10-06 2002-12-10 Delta Electronics, Inc. Light indication showing functional status or operational condition through light-transmissible enclosure case
US6494429B2 (en) 1997-08-04 2002-12-17 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Panel support structure, display panel supported by panel support structure, and image forming apparatus using display panel
US6494593B2 (en) 2000-01-07 2002-12-17 Lg Electronics Inc. Foldable case having back light
USD468035S1 (en) 2001-03-14 2002-12-31 Color Kinetics, Inc. Lighting fixture
US6507338B1 (en) * 1998-08-13 2003-01-14 Dell Usa, L.P. Computer system having a configurable touchpad-mouse button combination
US6528954B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-03-04 Color Kinetics Incorporated Smart light bulb
US6548967B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-04-15 Color Kinetics, Inc. Universal lighting network methods and systems
US6577080B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-06-10 Color Kinetics Incorporated Lighting entertainment system
US6608453B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-08-19 Color Kinetics Incorporated Methods and apparatus for controlling devices in a networked lighting system
US6608996B1 (en) 1999-08-20 2003-08-19 Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd. Cover for an electronic device
US6624597B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-09-23 Color Kinetics, Inc. Systems and methods for providing illumination in machine vision systems
US6652128B2 (en) 2001-01-31 2003-11-25 Textron Automotive Company, Inc. Backlighting method for an automotive trim panel
US6690362B1 (en) 1999-09-27 2004-02-10 Sony Corporation Touch switch with thermo-chromatic layers
US6720745B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2004-04-13 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Data delivery track
US6816149B1 (en) 2001-04-25 2004-11-09 Marte Alsleben Computer input device
US6888322B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2005-05-03 Color Kinetics Incorporated Systems and methods for color changing device and enclosure
US6977808B2 (en) 1999-05-14 2005-12-20 Apple Computer, Inc. Display housing for computing device
US6992733B1 (en) 1997-04-11 2006-01-31 Micron Technology, Inc. Backlighting system for an LCD
US7113196B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2006-09-26 Apple Computer, Inc. Computing device with dynamic ornamental appearance
US7148875B2 (en) 1998-06-23 2006-12-12 Immersion Corporation Haptic feedback for touchpads and other touch controls
US7239503B2 (en) 2003-07-15 2007-07-03 Research In Motion Limited Foam support for mobile electronic device display

Family Cites Families (52)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3131670A (en) 1960-12-07 1964-05-05 George K C Hardesty Illuminated moving hand instrument indicating devices
US3262224A (en) 1960-12-07 1966-07-26 George K C Hardesty Composite illumination device
US3161062A (en) 1961-11-15 1964-12-15 American Standard Controls Div Cluster gauge
US3729626A (en) 1971-08-26 1973-04-24 Gen Electric Instrument lighting system with inward illumination of the display and outward illumination of nomenclature and index marks
US4435713A (en) 1981-11-20 1984-03-06 Motorola, Inc. Whip antenna construction
US4584585A (en) 1984-04-04 1986-04-22 Motorola, Inc. Two element low profile antenna
US4672513A (en) 1984-10-15 1987-06-09 Kohorn H Von Illuminating system for three-dimensional objects
US5072230A (en) 1987-09-30 1991-12-10 Fujitsu Ten Limited Mobile telescoping whip antenna with impedance matched feed sections
US4980694A (en) 1989-04-14 1990-12-25 Goldstar Products Company, Limited Portable communication apparatus with folded-slot edge-congruent antenna
JPH0669992A (en) 1992-03-30 1994-03-11 American Teleph & Telegr Co <Att> Housing unit capable of being discolored
US5373300A (en) 1992-05-21 1994-12-13 International Business Machines Corporation Mobile data terminal with external antenna
US5715139A (en) 1993-09-09 1998-02-03 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Portable electronic apparatus having a frame supporting functional components, and method of assembling the portable electronic apparatus
DE4336633A1 (en) 1993-10-27 1995-05-04 Rr Elektronische Geraete Gmbh Coaxial antenna
US5440449A (en) 1994-01-26 1995-08-08 Intel Corporation Wireless communication connector and module for notebook personal computers
JP2723836B2 (en) 1995-06-16 1998-03-09 埼玉日本電気株式会社 Radio antenna
US5924784A (en) 1995-08-21 1999-07-20 Chliwnyj; Alex Microprocessor based simulated electronic flame
JP2877100B2 (en) * 1996-09-26 1999-03-31 日本電気株式会社 Keyboard input device
KR100193851B1 (en) 1996-11-05 1999-06-15 윤종용 Small antenna of portable radio
JPH10199314A (en) 1997-01-09 1998-07-31 Sony Corp Light guide device
FR2763027B1 (en) 1997-05-12 1999-06-25 Valeo Electronique IMPROVEMENT ON CONTROL PANELS, PARTICULARLY FOR HEATING, VENTILATION AND / OR AIR CONDITIONING OF THE INTERIOR OF A MOTOR VEHICLE
US6975079B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2005-12-13 Color Kinetics Incorporated Systems and methods for controlling illumination sources
US7764026B2 (en) 1997-12-17 2010-07-27 Philips Solid-State Lighting Solutions, Inc. Systems and methods for digital entertainment
US5963421A (en) 1997-12-09 1999-10-05 Dell Usa, L.P. Display assembly stiffening apparatus
KR200269707Y1 (en) 1997-12-22 2002-05-09 윤종용 Antenna device of smartphone
US5929813A (en) 1998-01-09 1999-07-27 Nokia Mobile Phones Limited Antenna for mobile communications device
US6056425A (en) 1998-05-15 2000-05-02 E-Lite Technologies, Inc. Illuminated roof mounted sign assembly for motor vehicle
KR100598137B1 (en) 1998-09-16 2006-07-07 소니 가부시끼 가이샤 Display apparatus
DE69824289T2 (en) 1998-09-21 2005-06-16 Hewlett-Packard Development Co., L.P., Houston Rotatable display device
US6129440A (en) 1998-11-13 2000-10-10 Iomega Corporation Switch-operated member with status light pipe incorporated therein
US6532152B1 (en) 1998-11-16 2003-03-11 Intermec Ip Corp. Ruggedized hand held computer
JP2000172376A (en) 1998-12-08 2000-06-23 Toshiba Corp Information processor
US6167312A (en) 1999-04-30 2000-12-26 Medtronic, Inc. Telemetry system for implantable medical devices
JP2001147739A (en) 1999-11-19 2001-05-29 Nec Shizuoka Ltd Casing, method for designing casing and portable terminal
JP4495814B2 (en) 1999-12-28 2010-07-07 アビックス株式会社 Dimmable LED lighting fixture
DE10137919A1 (en) 2000-09-01 2002-06-06 Thomas Emde Housing of an electrical or electronic device comprises at least one plate element provided with at least one light source emitting light into the plate element through its edge surface
US7303300B2 (en) 2000-09-27 2007-12-04 Color Kinetics Incorporated Methods and systems for illuminating household products
US6496149B1 (en) 2001-02-01 2002-12-17 Apple Computer, Inc. Recessed aperture-coupled patch antenna with multiple dielectrics for wireless applications
US6510995B2 (en) 2001-03-16 2003-01-28 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. RGB LED based light driver using microprocessor controlled AC distributed power system
US7598684B2 (en) 2001-05-30 2009-10-06 Philips Solid-State Lighting Solutions, Inc. Methods and apparatus for controlling devices in a networked lighting system
US7766517B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2010-08-03 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
EP1474735B1 (en) 2001-06-15 2006-10-11 Apple Computer, Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US7452098B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2008-11-18 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US6630801B2 (en) 2001-10-22 2003-10-07 Lümileds USA Method and apparatus for sensing the color point of an RGB LED white luminary using photodiodes
TWM250188U (en) 2001-11-15 2004-11-11 Wistron Neweb Corp Notebook with an embedded antenna
EP1319553B1 (en) 2001-12-14 2017-02-08 Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. Vehicle instrument
JP3745310B2 (en) 2002-05-31 2006-02-15 ソニー株式会社 LIGHT EMITTING DEVICE DRIVE DEVICE AND PORTABLE DEVICE USING THE SAME
US6753661B2 (en) 2002-06-17 2004-06-22 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. LED-based white-light backlighting for electronic displays
US20040141321A1 (en) 2002-11-20 2004-07-22 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Lighting and other perceivable effects for toys and other consumer products
US7067995B2 (en) 2003-01-15 2006-06-27 Luminator, Llc LED lighting system
US20040201573A1 (en) 2003-04-10 2004-10-14 Zen Design Group, Ltd. Illuminated computer peripheral
US7427143B1 (en) 2005-06-30 2008-09-23 Yazaki North America, Inc. Instrument cluster with three-dimensional display
CN201025344Y (en) 2007-02-12 2008-02-20 鸿富锦精密工业(深圳)有限公司 Computer panel

Patent Citations (101)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3777222A (en) 1972-05-12 1973-12-04 Ibm Modular touch sensitive indicating panels with touch and light transmissive overlay cover membrane containing visible printed indicia
US4277665A (en) 1979-01-10 1981-07-07 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Illuminated push-button electrical switch
US5222076A (en) 1981-04-15 1993-06-22 Ng William K Y Data communication apparatus and method with low power standby mode
US4789774A (en) 1984-06-30 1988-12-06 Mannesmann Kienzle Gmbh Electronic display device
US4845481A (en) 1986-01-08 1989-07-04 Karel Havel Continuously variable color display device
US5008870A (en) 1988-06-28 1991-04-16 Vessa James R FIFO clock
US4847736A (en) 1988-08-17 1989-07-11 Ho Tze H Illuminated wall vase having removable faces
US5305013A (en) 1990-11-13 1994-04-19 Compaq Computer Corp. Disk drive status graphical display
USD348905S (en) 1990-12-27 1994-07-19 Compaq Computer Corporation Decal for identification of an LED indicator on a desktop computer
US5138328A (en) 1991-08-22 1992-08-11 Motorola, Inc. Integral diversity antenna for a laptop computer
US5228562A (en) 1991-09-09 1993-07-20 Gm Nameplate, Inc. Membrane switch and fabrication method
US5774098A (en) 1992-05-22 1998-06-30 Sony Corporation Indicator
US5422751A (en) 1992-10-14 1995-06-06 Apple Computer, Inc. Liquid crystal display assembly employing front bezel, frame holding liquid crystal cell attached to bezel, and light source and back plate attached to bezel
US5339213A (en) 1992-11-16 1994-08-16 Cirque Corporation Portable computer touch pad attachment
US5387901A (en) 1992-12-10 1995-02-07 Compaq Computer Corporation Led indicating light assembly for a computer housing
US5388357A (en) 1993-04-08 1995-02-14 Computer Power Inc. Kit using led units for retrofitting illuminated signs
US5406729A (en) 1993-05-12 1995-04-18 Lettertech, Inc. Illuminated display
US5490647A (en) 1993-08-09 1996-02-13 Rice; Gregory H. Palm rest for use with computer data entry devices
US5479285A (en) 1993-09-01 1995-12-26 Ncr Corporation Liquid crystal device with an isotropic shock mounting and gasket
US5450221A (en) 1993-09-08 1995-09-12 Delco Electronics Corporation Compact liquid crystal display for instrument panel having a wrap around flexible printed circuit board and translucent web
US5738536A (en) 1993-10-29 1998-04-14 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Portable electronic apparatus having a connector cover which can be housed in a case
US5825351A (en) 1994-05-12 1998-10-20 Apple Computer, Inc. Method and apparatus for noise filtering for an input device
US5689400A (en) 1994-05-31 1997-11-18 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Portable electronic apparatus including space-saving component mounting features
US5644320A (en) 1994-06-30 1997-07-01 Compaq Computer Corporation Antenna system for a notebook computer
US5677698A (en) 1994-08-18 1997-10-14 Plessey Semiconductors Limited Slot antenna arrangement for portable personal computers
US5668565A (en) 1994-12-22 1997-09-16 Orbital Science Corporation Flexible feed line for an antenna system
US6285420B1 (en) 1995-01-31 2001-09-04 Minolta Co., Ltd. Edge illuminated display device with light guiding member
US5515244A (en) 1995-04-03 1996-05-07 Apple Computer, Inc. Light-transmitting pipe
US5706168A (en) 1995-07-07 1998-01-06 Itronix Corporation Impact-resistant notebook computer having hard drive mounted on shock-isolating mounting bridge and impact attenuating covering
US5870282A (en) 1995-09-15 1999-02-09 Apple Computer, Inc. Reconfigurable enclosure panel for a mobile computer
US5666261A (en) 1995-09-25 1997-09-09 At&T Global Information Solutions Company Honeycomb celled-sheet layer composite panel for monitoring an LCD to a laptop computer
US5918396A (en) 1996-02-16 1999-07-06 Jung; Hae-Ryong Light box with edge-lit panel
US5684672A (en) 1996-02-20 1997-11-04 International Business Machines Corporation Laptop computer with an integrated multi-mode antenna
US5781406A (en) 1996-03-05 1998-07-14 Hunte; Stanley G. Computer desktop keyboard cover with built-in monitor screen & wrist-support accessory
US5615945A (en) 1996-03-27 1997-04-01 Noopro Industrial Corporation Lighting device for use with computers
US5828341A (en) 1996-03-29 1998-10-27 Itronix Corporation Laptop computer having internal radio with interchangeable antenna features
US5742120A (en) 1996-05-10 1998-04-21 Rebif Corporation Light-emmiting diode lamp with directional coverage for the emmitted light
US5966284A (en) 1996-07-31 1999-10-12 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Keyboard mounting apparatus for a portable computer
US5966098A (en) 1996-09-18 1999-10-12 Research In Motion Limited Antenna system for an RF data communications device
US5777704A (en) 1996-10-30 1998-07-07 International Business Machines Corporation Backlighting an LCD-based notebook computer under varying ambient light conditions
US5920310A (en) 1996-11-15 1999-07-06 Synaptics, Incorporated Electronic device employing a touch sensitive transducer
US5748084A (en) 1996-11-18 1998-05-05 Isikoff; Jeremy M. Device security system
US5867131A (en) 1996-11-19 1999-02-02 International Business Machines Corporation Antenna for a mobile computer
US6096984A (en) 1997-01-21 2000-08-01 Dell Usa, L.P. Adjustable touchpad
US6115762A (en) 1997-03-07 2000-09-05 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. PC wireless communications utilizing an embedded antenna comprising a plurality of radiating and receiving elements responsive to steering circuitry to form a direct antenna beam
US5914709A (en) 1997-03-14 1999-06-22 Poa Sana, Llc User input device for a computer system
US6992733B1 (en) 1997-04-11 2006-01-31 Micron Technology, Inc. Backlighting system for an LCD
US6289466B1 (en) 1997-06-11 2001-09-11 Compaq Computer Corporation Usage of monitor bezel buttons to control and indicate multimedia functions
US5938772A (en) 1997-06-11 1999-08-17 Compaq Computer Corporation Responsive backlit hardwire button array providing illumination and user feedback in a computer
US6494429B2 (en) 1997-08-04 2002-12-17 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Panel support structure, display panel supported by panel support structure, and image forming apparatus using display panel
US6720745B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2004-04-13 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Data delivery track
US6548967B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-04-15 Color Kinetics, Inc. Universal lighting network methods and systems
US6292901B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2001-09-18 Color Kinetics Incorporated Power/data protocol
US6624597B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-09-23 Color Kinetics, Inc. Systems and methods for providing illumination in machine vision systems
US6888322B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2005-05-03 Color Kinetics Incorporated Systems and methods for color changing device and enclosure
US6608453B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-08-19 Color Kinetics Incorporated Methods and apparatus for controlling devices in a networked lighting system
US6150774A (en) 1997-08-26 2000-11-21 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Multicolored LED lighting method and apparatus
US6577080B2 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-06-10 Color Kinetics Incorporated Lighting entertainment system
US6166496A (en) 1997-08-26 2000-12-26 Color Kinetics Incorporated Lighting entertainment system
US6340868B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2002-01-22 Color Kinetics Incorporated Illumination components
US6211626B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2001-04-03 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Illumination components
US6528954B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2003-03-04 Color Kinetics Incorporated Smart light bulb
US6016038A (en) 1997-08-26 2000-01-18 Color Kinetics, Inc. Multicolored LED lighting method and apparatus
US6459919B1 (en) 1997-08-26 2002-10-01 Color Kinetics, Incorporated Precision illumination methods and systems
US6035180A (en) 1997-10-07 2000-03-07 Ericsson Inc. Communication module having selectively programmable exterior surface
US6018332A (en) 1997-11-21 2000-01-25 Ark Interface Ii, Inc. Overscan user interface
US6058634A (en) 1997-12-17 2000-05-09 Mcspiritt; James C. Light emitting artwork
US6320941B1 (en) 1998-01-08 2001-11-20 Dan Tyroler Stand alone electronic mail notifying device
US6089893A (en) 1998-01-21 2000-07-18 Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. Illuminated electrical receptacle employing electroluminescent lamp member
US6030088A (en) 1998-02-02 2000-02-29 Scheinberg; George Clear casing for an electronic component
US6061037A (en) 1998-03-04 2000-05-09 Tri-Tronics, Inc. Flex antenna structure and method for collar-mounted remote animal training system
US6217182B1 (en) 1998-04-14 2001-04-17 Ford Global Technologies, Inc. Electronic device with display and receptacle for a removable information storage medium
US7148875B2 (en) 1998-06-23 2006-12-12 Immersion Corporation Haptic feedback for touchpads and other touch controls
US6507338B1 (en) * 1998-08-13 2003-01-14 Dell Usa, L.P. Computer system having a configurable touchpad-mouse button combination
US6037679A (en) 1998-11-30 2000-03-14 Pirillo; Paul M. Yard decorations for low voltage table
US6109760A (en) 1998-12-14 2000-08-29 Daimlerchrysler Corporation Illuminated power outlet
US6190017B1 (en) 1999-03-10 2001-02-20 Li-Chun Lai Safe electric luminescence night lamp
US6370376B1 (en) 1999-03-18 2002-04-09 David J. Sheath Computer cellular communication system
US6224244B1 (en) 1999-03-23 2001-05-01 John L. Burys Automobile panel display accessory
US6144552A (en) 1999-04-26 2000-11-07 Emc Corporation Handheld computer system
US6933929B1 (en) * 1999-05-14 2005-08-23 Apple Computer, Inc. Housing for a computing device
US6977808B2 (en) 1999-05-14 2005-12-20 Apple Computer, Inc. Display housing for computing device
US6357887B1 (en) 1999-05-14 2002-03-19 Apple Computers, Inc. Housing for a computing device
US6161944A (en) 1999-05-18 2000-12-19 Micron Electronics, Inc. Retractable keyboard illumination device
US6476726B1 (en) 1999-08-04 2002-11-05 911 Emergency Products, Inc. LED personal warning light
US6608996B1 (en) 1999-08-20 2003-08-19 Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd. Cover for an electronic device
US6259417B1 (en) 1999-08-24 2001-07-10 Lucent Technologies Inc. Collinear antenna for portable radio and methods for making same
US6690362B1 (en) 1999-09-27 2004-02-10 Sony Corporation Touch switch with thermo-chromatic layers
US6492908B1 (en) 1999-10-06 2002-12-10 Delta Electronics, Inc. Light indication showing functional status or operational condition through light-transmissible enclosure case
US6494593B2 (en) 2000-01-07 2002-12-17 Lg Electronics Inc. Foldable case having back light
US6486873B1 (en) 2000-04-06 2002-11-26 Microsoft Corporation Illuminated computer input device
US6652128B2 (en) 2001-01-31 2003-11-25 Textron Automotive Company, Inc. Backlighting method for an automotive trim panel
USD463610S1 (en) 2001-03-13 2002-09-24 Color Kinetics, Inc. Lighting fixture
USD468035S1 (en) 2001-03-14 2002-12-31 Color Kinetics, Inc. Lighting fixture
USD457667S1 (en) 2001-03-21 2002-05-21 Color Kinetics, Inc. Accent light
USD458395S1 (en) 2001-03-22 2002-06-04 Color Kinetics, Inc. Accent light
USD457974S1 (en) 2001-03-23 2002-05-28 Color Kinetics, Inc. Accent light
US6816149B1 (en) 2001-04-25 2004-11-09 Marte Alsleben Computer input device
US7113196B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2006-09-26 Apple Computer, Inc. Computing device with dynamic ornamental appearance
USD457669S1 (en) 2001-08-01 2002-05-21 Color Kinetics, Inc. Novelty light
US7239503B2 (en) 2003-07-15 2007-07-03 Research In Motion Limited Foam support for mobile electronic device display

Non-Patent Citations (28)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
"iBook: How to Determine Battery Charge Status", Article ID 58417, Apple Care Tech Info Library, Aug. 25, 1999.
Apple Computer iBook Hardware, General Topics, iBook Ports and Connectors, Figs. 1 & 2.
Circuit City advertisement for Philips Somba 13 stereo TV.
Examination Report in corresponding Australian Patent No. 2002315170 dated Aug. 28, 2006.
Mahn et al., "HP-PAC: A New Chassis and Housing Concept for Electronic Equipment", Aug. 1994, Hewlett-Packard Journal.
Office Action dated Aug. 23, 2007 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/075,964.
Office Action dated Dec. 12, 2007 in U.S. Appl. No. 10/773,897.
Office Action dated Dec. 19, 2007 in U.S. Appl. No. 11/198,817.
Office Action dated Jan. 28, 2008 for U.S. Appl. No. 10/075,964.
Office Action dated Jan. 28, 2008 for U.S. Appl. No. 11/198,783.
Office Action dated Nov. 30, 2007 in Chinese Patent Application No. 200480042692.0.
Office Action dated Sep. 12, 2007 in U.S. Appl. No. 11/486,272.
Office Action in corresponding U.S. Appl. No. 11/198,783 dated Aug. 17, 2007.
Office Action in corresponding U.S. Appl. No. 11/198,820 dated Sep. 17, 2007.
Outpost.com advertisement for "Blue Cold Cathode Tube Light", downloaded Jul. 25, 2003.
Search Report for PCT Application No. PCT/US2004/043479 dated Oct. 4, 2005.
Website www.2.consumer.philips.com/global/b2c/ce/catalog/product.jhtml?divld=0&groupID=TV, downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.cksauce.com/products/lightorb.htm, "LightOrb" downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.cksauce.com/products/lightsaucer.htm, "LightSaucer" downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.cksauce.com/products/lightsprite.htm, "LightSprite" downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.cksauce.com/products/lightwand.htm, "LightWand" downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.cksauce.com/products/lightwasher.htm, "LightWasher" downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.cksuace.com/products/minilightwand.htm, "MiniLightWand" downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Website www.colorkinetics.com/products/controllers/index.htm, "Controllers feel the power. it's Herculean", downloaded Apr. 17, 2001.
Website www.colorkinetics.com/products/lights/icolor/index.htm, "iColor Series iWant. iNeed.iHave to have", downloaded Apr. 17, 2001.
Website www.jtech.com/products/guest<SUB>-</SUB>alert.htm, "GuestAlert Guest Paging Systems", downloaded Jan. 28, 2002.
Written Opinion for corresponding PCT Application No. PCT/US02/18953 dated Jul. 28, 2005.
Written Opinion for PCT Application No. PCT/US2004/043479 dated Oct. 4, 2005.

Cited By (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20090009350A1 (en) * 1999-05-14 2009-01-08 Apple Inc. Housing for a computing device
US8256913B2 (en) * 1999-05-14 2012-09-04 Apple Inc. Housing for a computing device
US8264167B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2012-09-11 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US9797558B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2017-10-24 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US8729825B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2014-05-20 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US8395330B2 (en) 2001-06-15 2013-03-12 Apple Inc. Active enclosure for computing device
US20080122793A1 (en) * 2006-07-07 2008-05-29 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Input device
US8044938B2 (en) * 2006-07-07 2011-10-25 Alps Electric Co., Ltd. Input device with improved touch panel surface and electronic device having the input device
US20100020028A1 (en) * 2006-08-23 2010-01-28 Patrice Laurent Control Module, In Particular For An Automotive Vehicle
US8773363B2 (en) * 2006-08-23 2014-07-08 Dav Control module for an automotive vehicle using a touch sensor
US20090135579A1 (en) * 2007-11-27 2009-05-28 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Touch pad having electromagnetic interference shielding plate
US7920125B2 (en) * 2007-11-30 2011-04-05 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Electronic apparatus
US20090140979A1 (en) * 2007-11-30 2009-06-04 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Electronic apparatus
US20140016291A1 (en) * 2010-04-12 2014-01-16 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Electronic apparatus
US20220214724A1 (en) * 2021-01-04 2022-07-07 Apple Inc. Electronic device display
US11775031B2 (en) * 2021-01-04 2023-10-03 Apple Inc. Electronic device display

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6933929B1 (en) 2005-08-23
US20090009350A1 (en) 2009-01-08
US6357887B1 (en) 2002-03-19
US8256913B2 (en) 2012-09-04
US7804487B1 (en) 2010-09-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7443388B1 (en) Housing for a computing device
US7679893B2 (en) Display housing for computing device
US9971384B2 (en) Printed circuit board features of a portable computer
US6229695B1 (en) Palm-sized computer with a frame to hold device plates
US10379634B2 (en) Information processing apparatus and base member
CN211928482U (en) Electronic device
JPH10161811A (en) Touch panel and electronic device
CN103189812A (en) Portable computer with reveal region
US20040207976A1 (en) Electronic apparatus comprising keyboard-mounted housing
US7164577B2 (en) Electronic apparatus having storage device
JP3088056B2 (en) Computer
KR20050059982A (en) Electronic apparatus
US7869205B2 (en) Data processing device
CN211928483U (en) Electronic device
KR100581596B1 (en) Notebook computer with hidden touch pad
JP2007165101A (en) Electronic equipment equipped with antistatic function
JPH1032390A (en) Waterproof structure for instrument housing
US6791827B2 (en) Wireless module for notebook
KR20010041980A (en) Notebook computer with a detachably fixed keyboard
US20090140988A1 (en) Touch Panel with Integrated Function Keys
CN220156809U (en) Upper cover assembly mounting structure and stamping machine
US20220272849A1 (en) Electronic device
CN217060956U (en) Glass touch device with waterproof film
US20220271419A1 (en) Electronic device
KR20030045897A (en) Potable Computer

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: APPLE INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:APPLE COMPUTER, INC.;REEL/FRAME:019000/0383

Effective date: 20070109

Owner name: APPLE INC.,CALIFORNIA

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:APPLE COMPUTER, INC.;REEL/FRAME:019000/0383

Effective date: 20070109

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

MAFP Maintenance fee payment

Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 12TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1553); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

Year of fee payment: 12